Caray, Caray!

ETERNAMENTE AMANDONOS #15/16 Page ONE

Hey, it looks like Uni managed to show three episodes in two hours. Miracles never cease! I wish they would.

At the beginning and the end. . . there is
ERIKA who takes care of Paula until she is feeling better. After realizing who Paula is, Erika is disappointed in herself that she was not as strong or brave as Paula who defied Martina and married Rogelio anyway in spite of Martina's threats. Instead, Erika broke the engagement off and left town. She might not have known that she was pregnant when she left, but she knew that Rogelio wanted his son to be named Lucas after his grandfather. Paula runs into Lucas and Erika and Lucas is interested in attending her school. One afternoon, Rogelio meets him there not knowing who his mother is. At the grand opening of the music school, Erika surprises Rogelio. That is where the episode ends.

ROGELIO meets with Ignacio and tells him he knows who he is: Cristóbal Ruvacalba who spent 7 years in jail for murder. Rogelio gets under Ignacio's skin who insists on playing the victim. Rogelio warns him off until he is really ready to come and play with the big boys. Rogelio pays the bar bill. Ignacio is so infuriated, pays it again. Rogelio goes to see Beatriz because with the help of Fidel's detective, he has found out that she is Irma's sister. It turns out that Beatriz and her sister were wild as teenagers. Beatriz got pregnant and left home. She found a guy to marry her without knowing she was pregnant and stayed with him so, her husband never knew the whole story. Rogelio promises to tell nobody as long has his family is not hurt. Earlier Beatriz was "visited" by Ignacio and Irma. She was with her husband and told him they were just neighbors stopping by to say hi. Ignacio threatened to tell her husband the truth if she were to out them. Rogelio tells Fidel to have the detective visit the town that Beatriz and Irma came from and find out all he can about their family. Rogelio gives Paula a piano for her school, a lovely necklace, tons of cut flowers and and little pet turtle in this episode.

PAULA arrives late at her job and her boss gets on her case. She ending up vomiting all over him from her morning sickness and tells him he is a sexual predator and that she quits which makes Rogelio very happy.

FERNANDO has his hands full with his wifey. She is promising increasing intimacy if they can just move out. He withdraws a sum of money from the company for a downpayment. When Rogelio finds out about it, he puts a stop on it. Fernando is not happy and the brothers fight about it. Martina can see no reason for him to move out. It is a FAMILY business with FAMILY money. Everything must be decided as a FAMILY. Imelda is angry so she has Felipa set fire to the family crib that Martina used for all of her babies. Melitón was refinishing it for Paula's baby. Martina is heart broken. Fernando may have an opportunity to make more money. He meets with Ignacio and Ignacio admits who he really is. It turns out that he murdered his step father who used to beat him severely and cause his mother much suffering. One night, his step father came home drunk and Ignacio could not take any more so he killed him. He got out of jail early due to good behavior. He has a lot of other "businesses." He makes Fernando an offer to come into his illegal fuel business where gasoline is stolen and resold on the black market. He can be a "huachicolero." Fernando agrees to be a part of it as long as the name "Iturbide" is not connected with it. Ignacio assures him it won't be. Okay . . .

 

ETERNAMENTE Page Two

EVA still needs to repay her "debt" with the Patch. She is desperate and steals the wedding set that Martina gave Imelda to wear. She takes the set to a local jewelry store to have it appraised and sell. The jeweler has a feeling that there is something crooked with the situation and tells her to come back tomorrow. He calls and sends Martina a photo of the jewelry. The next day Martina is waiting for her at the store. Eva apologizes. We never find out what the upshot of that situation was. Martina told the help not to set a place for Eva a the table. I thought she would have thrown Eva out but then Eva was at the grand opening. Your guess is as good as mine.

BLANCA is overheard by Martina talking about Marco. Martina heads out and tells her son it is time for him to get himself in gear and DO SOMETHING. He roars away on his motorcycle as she is still talking. Her attention turns next to Blanca. She tells Blanca's aunt (?) Micaela that she wants Blanca out of the house. When Micaela balks, Martina tells her to just marry Blanca off to somebody.
Micaela cannot do that but where is Blanca to go? Blanca sees Marco ask the blondie to be his novia and confronts him about how she feels about him but how she also understands that they are from different social classes so it would never work out. He admits he never sold have gotten so friendly with her when he came home drunk that night. At the grand opening, she is in the bathroom crying and has a knife. Is she going to try to commit suicide?

Well, that is all I got tonight. Please feel free to add anything else.
 

OT

Thanks to the rest who replied on the previous page...

On a lighter topic, Univisión is really airing the Gran Estreños of 2 novelas ON THE SAME DAY? Am I the only one who doesn't think that's a good idea?
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #75 Part 1

The Rules of Diss-Engagement; Finally, Forgiveness; Heading to Hades

There is darkness there that never sleeps - Tolkien

Camila and David stand on the stage, smiles brightly illuminating their faces. Camila has just lauded David with a glowing speech, praising her “hero’s” incredible healing and nurturing nature. Then, out of the clear blue, Camila asks David a startling question – will he marry her? David’s face mirrors his shock (but not quite awe). We see Gael staring at Leona, staring at David. Camila (somewhat) realizes that David is taken aback and explains that in years past, she has spent her time surviving; now she wants to live. She reframes her question to “When WE are ready, will you marry me?” David replies YES! Jacinta and Matias look concerned as does Consuelo; only Clara looks happy. Leona stares, eyes as wide as saucers, clearly crushed and as Camila and David kiss, she turns and leaves. Around the corner, Leona wipes away tears as the camera focuses on Gael, his hurt palpable, his spirit crushed.

At the church, Ramses tells Benja that he has shown that he is braver than his father. He puts his gun on the pew and asks Benja if he has what his father didn’t; if Benja wants to be better, he should accept his destiny. With dogged determination, Ramses urges Benja to show his hate and kill him. When Benja hesitates and stutters, Ramses taunts him, he (Ramses) deserves it and no one will judge him (omitting the law of course I hurriedly add). With the gun in his hands, Benja asks why Ramses has to be alive, why can’t he let them be happy? Ramses has flashbacks of Leona and Gael trying to kill him which he relates to Benja but says scornfully that neither had the guts to do it. After Ramses tries again to goad Benja into killing him, Benja (having a conscience and desire not to burn in hell) drops the gun and semi-collapses in the pew. With rising fury, Ramses threatens that he won’t hold back, he will finish off Benja’s family. Benja courageously/foolishly vows that Ramses won’t harm anyone else…but then caves as he adds that he is not a murderer! Ramses mocks that he is truly Gael’s son. Gael tried to kill him many times but never followed through. The thought that Benja was dead was eating Gael alive. Benja has a flashback of Gael telling him that he was a coward. Ramses grabs him by the collar and continues that if Benja wants the suffering to end, then he should accept his role as Ramses’ grandson and be his heir. Benja tells him this is why his sister will never forgive him, because of his lost soul. AnaJu wants to tear out all the Torrenegro blood from her body just like he does. Neither one wants his money or his last name. Ramses grabs Benja and asks if he wants to be a nobody all his life! Benja tells him he is a Hernandez and he is proud to be Leona’s son! Just then, Itzel enters and seeing Ramses, runs down the aisle. She demands he let Benja go or she will yell; Ramses points out that no one will hear her. Ramses tells Sobec to get the car ready and tells Benja to think about his offer. Itzel threatens to record a live video and tell everyone that she is in front of a human trafficker! When Ramses takes the phone from her, Benja gets in front of her and tells Ramses that he will have to kill him before hurting Itzel! Ramses shakes his head and tells Benja that he has chosen the path of pain; sooner or later, Benja will come to him. As Ramses strolls down the aisle, Benja hugs a crying Itzel.

Clara can’t believe Camila dared to ask David to marry her in front of everyone; Jacinta doesn’t know what to think.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #75 Part 2

Benja thinks that Ramses would have killed him had Itzel not arrived. He cries thinking of how he put her in danger. Itzel tells him that they are alive. Benja then tells her how Ramses asked him to be his heir and when he refused, Ramses challenged him to shoot him; for a moment he thought about doing it but he isn’t a murderer…he doesn’t want to be like him and he doesn’t want an assassin for a grandfather. Itzel points out that Benja is the exact opposite of Ramses, Benja represents all the good in the world. Benja wants to spare his family and not tell them what happened so their day wouldn’t be ruined. Itzel tells him that they do need to tell everyone about it because they need to know that they have to take care of each other. She touches her hands to his face and as their foreheads touch, Itzel thanks God that Benja is all right, she loves him…and he loves her.

David and Jacinta have a heart-to-heart discussion. He confides that he doesn’t want to hurt Camila who has suffered so much; she doesn’t deserve it. Jacinta wonders if David is willing to be the one to suffer; he, more than anyone, knows what it’s like to live with an unrequited love. If he doesn’t love Camila he needs to tell her and not break her heart.

Leona sits with yards of tulle as she lovingly touches her sewing machine while she speaks silently to her mother. She thanks her, never envisioning she would sew the first dress for her daughter. She flashes back to her mother advising her about having children and loving them. The machine is threaded and Leona begins to use loving creativity to fashion AnaJu’s dress. Consuelo comes in, exclaiming “wow” in appreciation, telling her the dress is turning out beautifully. Leona glows thinking that if her daughter likes the dress, it will make her the happiest woman in the world.

As the sun rises on AnaJu and Benja’s special day, Leona tells the children that everything has to be perfect. There are an array of silver, gold and glitter balloons, some configured in the number “16”. The table is laden with food, entrees including rich, roasted tender chicken, sauteed mushrooms, assorted sides and an array of sauces.. Camila and AnaJu arrive, AnaJu staring wondrously. Teo promises her Leona has the best surprise. Leona walks in with a huge white box beautifully wrapped with a silver and blue ribbon. Everyone smiles, Consuelo and family in the background. Leona presents it to AnaJu. Leona knows it’s not her real birthday; but she and Camila have agreed to celebrate both birthdays which Benja thinks is a great idea.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #75 Part 3

AnaJu removes the box top, revealing blue wrapping paper. She takes out the dress with a corseted top embroidered with small blue flowers. The dress has a blue sash and the tulle skirt has a stunning smattering of blue flowers. AnaJu’s eyes radiate with joy; she thinks the dress is beautiful. Leona shares that she made it using her mother’s sewing machine. She has never been able to give AnaJu anything for her birthday. She smiles that AnaJu grew up to be a beautiful young lady and that is why it was important to Leona to give her this present. Leona shares that her mother taught her to sew and when she saw the blue material she knew it would be perfect for AnaJu because she deserves everything. Leona knows that AnaJu’s grandmother is sending her a huge hug and loving wishes from heaven. Smiling, AnaJu tells Leona, I don’t know how to thank you for this, mama! Leona steps back, eyes wide in delight and joyously announces “you just called me mother!” After AnaJu confirms she did, Leona cries that she is so happy, it’s like hearing her baby say “mama” for the first time. AnaJu knows she took time to accept it but she feels closer to Leona every day. After Leona tells Camila that there are many more surprises, Camila, (who has been smiling and encouraging, seemingly not in the least bit jealous), tells her that she will go see her “prometido”. Viewerville is happy that she was able to use that term of endearment, if only briefly. After Camila leaves, the door closes and Consuelo and Leona exchange looks.

Jacinta tells David that days have passed and asks if he has talked to Camila. David, who has morphed into the cowardly lion, snivels that he doesn’t know how to tell Camila without breaking her heart. Camila is so excited about and wrapped up in the wedding planning; he doesn’t want to disappoint her. Jacinta asks if David loves Camila enough to marry her. As his silence speaks volumes, Jacinta rues that the more time passes, the more painful it will be for Camila.

Jacinta is carefully lowering fish into sizzling oil as there is a knock on the door. David hesitates, grimacing at what is to come but finally opens the door. Camila enters telling David she has an appointment to see wedding dresses. After greeting her, Jacinta leaves the room. Camila immediately notes David’s anxiousness and asks if something is wrong. He replies with the proverbial “we need to talk” which in novela land or in real life, is never, ever a good thing.

Matias brings Gael a brown paper wrapped package tied with a red bow. Josefa tells him that only he would be able to do it. Gael tells Matias that he and Josefa think it’s best if Matias and Danilo move in with them. They can’t let their guard down for a moment and it’s best they stay together. Ramses and Columba have been quiet but they will strike back again and they should all be together. Matias agrees as he, Gael and Josefa share a hug.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #75 Part 4

Orlando has secured a beautiful apartment for Ramses and Columba, which she duly notes. Ramses dispenses of any preliminary chit chat snarling that the day for the paternity test is drawing closer. When he wonders what the results will be, Columba assures him that the baby is his and won’t have the fisherwoman’s scent. When Ramses asks how she dares to speak ill of his family, Columba points out that AnaJu hates him and Benja despises him; they will keep the inheritance that belongs to her baby. Ramses warns that if she dares to harm AnaJu or Benja…it will be the end of her!

David tells Camila that time has already gone by and if he allows more time to pass, he will be the worst of men. Camila knows exactly where this is going and tells David to just say it. David tells her he has thought about it. He did agree to give it a try but Camila threw him for a loop when she jumped ahead; he didn’t expect it. Camila accepts that she got ahead of herself and shouldn’t have asked him to marry her in front of everyone. David explains that he tried to love her, but he can’t lie to her or himself, he can’t marry her!

Consuelo and Leona are excited that AnaJu called Leona mama. Leona knows that it’s a long way before her children can love her as their mother, but she feels them growing closer, giving her hope. AnaJu tells Leona that the dress fit perfectly and she will wear it to her party. Everyone can’t wait for the party to begin. AnaJu wants to have her party with all those she loves; she thanks everyone for making this day so special. Benja smiles that she can’t go to her party without a nice hairstyle.

Camila is sputtering, trying to backpedal, saying they can cancel or postpone the wedding. Coming unglued in her needy and desperate state, Camila cries that David doesn’t have to wear the ring; they can continue just being novios. David finally stops her telling her that she is an extraordinary woman…but… Camila cries that she doesn’t want this to turn into a goodbye. David doesn’t want her out of his life…as much as he has tried, he hasn’t stopped loving… Camila sighs in frustration and asks if he is still in love with Leona. David knows he should have waited until after her daughter’s party to tell her, but their families would probably ask about the wedding. He didn’t want Camila to continue with her disillusionment, errr, hopes; he had to tell her the truth. Camila admits that she knew this would happen; the worst of all is that her love for him is immense; she won’t be able to love anyone like this…she can’t forget her love (see any similarities here David??). She then asks if they can give each other a goodbye hug. She is grief stricken and ugly cries.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #75 Part 5

David tries to return the ring but Camila doesn’t want it; it will only bring her pain. David feels worse and reminds Cami that he was always sincere with her. Camila thinks it’s best if they don’t see each other for a while; she can continue her therapy on her own. David offers to go with her to announce that their wedding is canceled but Camila will do it later. David hopes that there won’t be any ill feelings between them. Camila gets up and remarks that she doesn’t understand how David can waste his time with Leona who is married to her brother.

Gael tells Josefa that AnaJu’s hatred for him breaks his heart. Josefa tells him that AnaJu needs time to clear her mind. Gael tells her that AnaJu didn’t even invite him to her party (which really was cold), they took her actual birthday from her. Josefa tells him that they did what they could at the time; torturing himself won’t do any good. Gael thinks he should have done more…he should have killed his father! Josefa pleads that he isn’t a monster, but Gael thinks he is, he is a murderer! Because of his cowardice, Leona’s family was killed and many women have died. He wants to kill his father and that is the only death that he won’t regret. Josefa tells him to think about what AnaJu will think about that …and what will happen to his children. He shouldn’t allow his father to continue manipulating him.

David was going to do dishes but is chased away by Clara for doing “women’s work”. Ack. David tells her times have changed and he wants Benja to know that a man can help, can cry and be vulnerable despite being a man.

Darkness has fallen and lights are ablaze in the glass house. Leona is in a stunning red dress and Gael comments how lovely she looks. She suggests he go to the party. He hands her the brown paper package that Matias brought, telling her he wants to give her back a small part of what she lost. He knows she wasn’t able to save a picture of her family and this was the closest thing he could give her. She stares at a family portrait with her parents and sister. She flashes back to one of the many group hugs she and her family shared. Gael, thank you she says softly, holding his hand, clearly emotional. My mother, my father, my sister she whispers lovingly fingering the canvas. She tells him this was the most beautiful gift he could have given her. Gael tells her he remembers her family but he asked Consuelo and Cristobal to help him with details.

Ramses arrives at Bustillo’s office just as he is telling his nurse they need to destroy all the paperwork. Ramses reminds him he supported his career just to have him work solely for Ramses and yet Bustillo betrayed him. With a hideous smirk, Ramses says he just came from seeing his wife and children. Ramses then gets out an electric drill saying he needs to tell him where Calixto is…the doctor can decide how much he wants to suffer.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #75 Part 6

As the gala commences, Itzel and Benja announce the guest of honor. AnaJu descends the stairs in her gorgeous gown, pearls threaded throughout her curled hair. Josefa gives AnaJu a necklace with a gold cross so that God will always protect her. She walks forward and thanks Teo who is in a trance at her loveliness. Unsurprisingly, David is center stage with Gael is nowhere to be seen. David announces the party should start and there are many surprises ahead. Immediately sensing something is seriously amiss with Camila, Leona asks her if something is wrong; is she upset with her? Camila replies it isn’t with her; it is just in some things, she will always come in second. David scampers after Leona to tell her he broke up with Camila as the only woman he will ever love is her!

Buenos noches we hear as Gael arrives. Silence falls over the room as AnaJu’s eyes water.

Orlando asks what Columba will give for his silence; if Ramses finds out about her attack he will get upset. Columba tells him not to break the peace; she is the snake not the apple. Ramses enters asking for Romeo. Orlando replies that he is with the attorney since Gael asked that Romeo get sent to prison. Ramses remarks that time is passing and Romeo hasn’t gotten his punishment. Columba asks if he found Calixto, so Ramses replies “no” adding that they would always cover Bustillo’s eyes when they took him. Ramses assures her that Calixto will pay for his betrayal!

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #75 Part 7 (Last)

Gael had doubts about coming but he didn’t want to miss AnaJu’s birthday party. He gives her the first toy she ever had, a small plush dolphin. After AnaJu apologizes for not inviting him, Gael states that he will leave. Josefa urges AnaJu not to let him leave and Leona reminds her that Gael has always been part of her life…he made mistakes but they should give him the opportunity to show them the man he is now. Gael thanks Leona but he does not want to pressure AnaJu. “Gael” AnaJu calls out, asking him to stay; a decision a smiling Oliver and Kika fully support. Oliver thinks that this deserves a dance. AnaJu asks Gael to keep the toy safe for her; She doesn’t want something so special between them to get lost. Gael will do whatever she asks, adding “hija”.

Leona tells AnaJu that she loved her ever since she had her in her womb. She knows AnaJu will become a strong woman who will make the world a better place. Leona thanks Camila for educating AnaJu and helping her be a marvelous young woman. Camila tells AnaJu that she brightened her life from the moment she entered it. She is very proud of her…she became a very noble woman. AnaJu thanks both of them—one for giving her life and the other for giving her the happiest 16 years. David, the ringmaster, announces it is time for the traditional waltz and leads AnaJu to Teo for the first dance as Teo and AnaJu profess their love. One twirl later, she is dancing with Benja who asks if she likes her party. Yes she affirms and then comments she is moved by seeing Gael there which confuses her; she doesn’t know what to do. Benja admits to feeling the same way…he hopes to understand Gael better with time. AnaJu next dances with Leona, telling her she appreciates everything her mama has done for her. Leona tells her they have much more to do. Leona tells her there are several others that want to dance with her…and she should dance with Gael. Indeed, he is her next partner. Gael thanks AnaJu for letting him stay. An unsmiling AnaJu tells him that the toy brought back many memories …when she was sad, he was the first to console her. He starts to talk about his cowardice, but she asks him to stop. She knows she said hurtful things and is sorry. He was a father to her without her knowing …but she always felt it. After she forgives him, the doors are thrown open as Calixto and his menacing thugs arrive, bursting through the door.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

As always, thank you to Rgv Chick, my "silent" partner whose superb dialogue translations and amazing revelations of exactly what transpired are always insightful and perfectly stated. Thank you for your continuing support and generosity...

Tonight was a turning point for me. After David accepted Camila's "on stage" proposal, Leona not only cried but actually left!! As Gael stared after her heartbroken, the last sliver of hope I'd had for them evaporated.

I fear the true darkness is now beginning and I'm shuddering to think of what might come.

Courage as we try to persevere.

Diana
 

Invencible

Dear Diana and RGVChick, thank you for the amazing recap. I wanted to comment earlier but we had yet another electricity cut.

Honestly, what is David doing? He first accepts the proposal and then breaks up with Camila? I mean, yes, Camila did put him in an uncomfortable position, proposing in front of EVERYONE, but still! He shouldn't have given her hope if he knew he was so in love with Leona! I'm sure that if he had been clear from the start, this mess wouldn't have happened.

The same goes for Leona. Why on earth tell Gael you'll give him a chance when you're CLEARLY still in love with David?

I'm SO over Clara. Now she starts the "female job" crap.

I don't understand AnaJu's reaction. Like, at all. So she invites literally EVERYONE ELSE to her party except Gael? How is she suddenly so forgiving of everyone except him? If it's because he didn't tell her he's her dad earlier, the others knew too and didn't tell her either, so she shouldn't have invited them too, no? And if it's because he "cOuLd HaVe StOpPeD rAmSéS", it's pretty much a joke argument at this point. Even the Interpol people can't stop him, if Gael tried to he'd probably end up dead too.

What enraged me the most was when she apologized. I mean, if you have an opinion, defend it! Don't change your mind halfway through! That sounds hypocritical to me.

I don't understand what Colu is doing either. Why is she speaking ill of Ramsés's grandkids when she sees he's gets pissed at her when she does it? Which part of "you'll regret it if you keep this up" doesn't she understand?

This is getting more enraging than ever. I think that pretty much ANY Gran Final will be horrible at this point, since the rest was badly written.

Thanks, Diana, for making this episode tolerable. I loved the recap.
 

eternamente
I thought Blanca called Micaela her 'madrina'. I have no idea where I got this from. But her situation is confusing. Can't she just go and work somewhere else? Martina said to Imelda at one point she musn't mistreat her staff, but apparently it's OK to just say 'well, marry her off to that butcher guy because I want her out of here.' It's like Blanca is her property. What is this? Slavery? And here I thought she was at least nice to her servants. The woman even gave the whole 'he is a man' speech. Didn't Marco also say something along the lines of 'you shouldn't have come into my room?' Because I wasn't sure if he accepted his role in the matter because he seemed to mention something like 'don't come into my room next time I'm drunk'. So if he did admit he wasn't innocent, I'm glad. But if Blanca ends up with him in the end, I don't know how I'll survive those scenes with these two.
Paula wanting to stay with Martina after the cradle was burnt irritated me. She is a bit too understanding to make her real for me. I do want her to get mad or at least not seem so overly nice. Besides, she is pregnant and she should think about her child and not her mother-in-law.
Eva was stupid to take the set to a local jeweler. I wonder who they'd have acused if she had managed to sell it.
 

Invencibble
Deep breaths...deep breaths...Why start the whole 'I'll try loving you' if you know you are in love with someone else?If it was a proposal of marriage that finally convinced David he couldn't go through with this 'attempt', he is seriously...I can't think of a proper word here. But what he thought would happen? They'd play 'we are novios' game for how long?
Whoever wrote the lines 'Gael, you should have stopped your father' should have been fired. The worst is that Gael himself keeps repeating it. Say he had stayed with Mar, does he think Ramses would just have let him live peacefully? If they had discovered those women anyway, Leona's family would still have been killed. Gael needed the help of an adult, but it seems he had no one to turn to. But no one mentions the fact that Josefa somehow didn't do anything. So did the writers let he be conveniently ignorant of what went on there just to make Gael responsible for all this? Because woemn have no responsibility? It's the duty of a male son to bring down his criminal father? This telenovela goes on and on about all kinds of prejudice and so on, somehow failing to mention that Gael is a victim of emotional and physical abuse. Why don't the writers have someone inform Ana Ju and Leona and David of the effects this has on a person? If Gael had been a woman, they'd made half the episodes about it.I'm absolutely furious. Leona is a victim but Gael is 'bad'. And they have both men and women in the team. Help me make sense of this.
Does Columba have a death wish? Surely she knows Ramses isn't joking. Or does she just think about the fact she doesn't want Leona's kids to get the inheritance? She is as stupid as Lola in that case.
Why exactly did that doctor agree to work for Calixto if he had a family whom Ramses could target? Why not tell Ramses about the blackmail or something? Did Ramses kill his family and later the doctor?
The only good thing was Gael giving Leona that painting. I'm in love with the guy.Leona is 'in love' with David, but wait till she learns he was in alliance with Columba. Her grand rescuer didn't care Columba was evil as long as she helped him separate Gael and Leona. What a great love this is. Did those writers overdose on something when writing this?
 

ETERNAMENTE

waterlily, interesting comments. I think you are right about Blanca calling Micaela “madrina.” I thought there was some sort of familial connection there. “What is this? Slavery?” Good question. Seems like it is the next thing to it when there are poor young women involved. They are treated almost like livestock in these novelas and any old butcher will do. I know Marco told Blanca not to come into his room uninvited and told her to leave. I couldn’t. take how he blamed being drunk for them having gotten romantic. He is a real waste of skin at this point. Martina is right about him at this time.

Eva was unbelievably stupid. That old babushka on her head and those sunglasses made her unforgettable. I had once thought she was a great support to Paula but now she is just another hindrance sort of like Cecilia is going to be. How long until Paula finds out that Ignacio was instrumental in finding the house for the school and funding Cecilia?
 

Invencible

Waterlily, I agree with your comment. I just don't think they made Gael look bad because he's a guy, but because they wanted to find an excuse to let Leona stay with David. Because David has been irritating to no end, they wanted to show Gael has a worse weakness to balance David's unnerving behavior. Otherwise, Gael would be the obvious choice for Leona and David would have been out of the picture and they just want to continue this "who will Leona choose" game. Unacceptable.

As I said earlier today, every way this can end will be awful IMO:

If she stays with David, which is probably were the writers are taking it (but you can never know with them), it'll be awful because they made Gael be redeemable for nothing and they'll keep on repeating the "you should have stopped your father" stuff. Ugh.

If she chooses Gael, it'll be awful because she's been treating him like garbage the whole novela. Sure, I get treating him this way at first, because you thought he was helping Ramsés, but afterwards, when he did everything to help you? Why? And she keeps on embarrassing him by acting VERY jealously towards David. I'd be concerned if I were Gael.

If she doesn't choose anyone and stays with her kids, which was what I originally wanted to see, it'll still be awful, because it won't make sense with the way the novela was written. We got half the episodes hearing obnoxious Leona talking about who she'll choose blah blah blah and then nothing? Again, I originally wanted it to end this way, but before this went downhill.

After re-reading this comment, I realised another thing I don't like about this novela is that it was mostly about the love triangle than revenge and Leona searching for her kids. Sure, I knew there would be a love triangle, but I didn't expect it to get 3/4 of the screen time. And with the awkwardly done PSAs and constant sponsoring, I honestly need a break.
 

INVENCIBLE

Thanks, Diana. I enjoyed your excellent recap more than watching the episode. The Tolkien quote was perfect! Even though David broke the engagement, Leona should have learned by now that time and everyone’s lives cannot stop for her. When will everyone have done enough for her?

Ramsés with his cordless (!) electrical drill? I wonder what brand it was. LOL What to do with two mad dogs Ramsés and Calixto on the loose? Guess we will find out soon enough.
 

Invencible

Dear Diana and Chickie, thank you so much for bringing us another wonderful retelling as our story unfolds and I become more and more curious about where the writers are taking us.

I hardly know where to begin . Maybe I will start with Dsvid, who put himself front and center at the Sweet 16 party . "The ringmaster" indeed, Diana. ;/
Dave, you are not Ana's dad...hmmm that would be GAEL , who wasn't even invited to the party. You are not even her novio's dad...that would be Cristabol , who politely stood and observed. And then , Dave "scampers" ;/ Leona, dressed in red , large and in charge, to let her know that she was the only woman he would ever love. Let me count the ways....I have saved you and yours.

But my favorite part of this episode was Leona handing Anaju off to dance wuth her dad . It reminded me of dancing with my dad. Gael looked so happy , so strong , so grateful ,veo relieved. That was a lovely gesture Leona made. Should we be hopeful? I wish they had shown us David's face at that moment.

Talk about a coward, David keeps sending mixed signals to Camila. ...but then ...you know...I can't because....Leonaaa.

The painting was a heartfelt surprise. Could this guy be trying any harder?

I had a thought the other day . At the shocking events at the start of this novela, I wondered how Leona could ever forgive , let alone fall in love Again with Gael. Then, I wondered why the writers had Leona and David make love after their engagement , but even though Gael and Leona were married and Gael knew she was Mar and married him for revenge on Ram and she knew Gael was not involved in trafficking , the writers only let Gael daydream about making love to Leona. Why? Will the writers ever let that happen? Are they punishing Gael, too?

Real life calls. More later.
 

Invencible

Waterlily, yes, I agree with everything you wrote.

When Ram was terrorizing Benja in the church, did it cross Ben's mind that Gael was about his age when the tragic events around his birth took place ? Maybe that will finally allow Ben to forgive Gael. He and Gael had such a warm relationship when they first met and it kept growing stronger. They both heard the call of the sangre. Daniel really understands what it means to have a son and be a loving father.
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Weirdo, thank you for your lovely, supportive comments.

"I don't understand AnaJu's reaction. Like, at all. So she invites literally EVERYONE ELSE to her party except Gael? How is she suddenly so forgiving of everyone except him? If it's because he didn't tell her he's her dad earlier, the others knew too and didn't tell her either, so she shouldn't have invited them too, no?" was excellent and mirrored my frustration. AnaJu who has been idolized throughout so staunch and unforgiving?? Save the hatred for your grandfather girl.

Your three scenarios as to how this might end were all oh so true!! There will be an ending but at this point, none of them will be truly happy, all will be tainted...

This is so sad and sordid, it desperately needed a real love story to anchor all of the disparate, depressing storylines. I love Consuelo and Cristobal but neither they nor Matias and Jacinta are enough.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

"This telenovela goes on and on about all kinds of prejudice and so on, somehow failing to mention that Gael is a victim of emotional and physical abuse. Why don't the writers have someone inform Ana Ju and Leona and David of the effects this has on a person?" A thought provoking question waterlily, one of many you posed.

The term "damaged goods" has always bothered me but for Gael, it is sadly a fitting descriptive. As you noted, the abuse he suffered was catastrophic. Yet, he tries to love, he wants to love but Leona and even his children place all of the guilt on his shoulders. He has suffered enough and hopefully, he is close to earning the place he deserves in his children's lives. In a way, Oliver and Kika have been the balm to his broken heart.

I am thinking Leona will never hear of David and Columba's alliance. As you noted, Columba keeps taunting Ramses about Benja and AnaJu (I can't fathom why; does she really think he won't hesitate to do her in?) No spoiler but I don't see her on this planet much longer.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Jarifa, thank you so much...

As you know, I love Tolkien and was happy I finally had a chance to use one of his quotes, certainly fitting last night. I suspect I will use one for Wednesday's also :)

"When will everyone have done enough for her?" gave me pause. A wise musing indeed.

That drill gave me chills. I fervently hope he didn't "visit" the doctor's family.

Diana
 

Invencible

I think deep down , Ram has a death wish. Talk about a damaged soul. He has dared several people to kill him , including his own son . He loves to go to church to threaten people and terrorize the priest . He must think that he is actually the devil incarnate. How did Gael ever survive being the devil's son ?

To me, Gael is the character who has taken on the hero's journey . Leona and David are just walking in circles . David is just running after Leona wherever she is, and Leona has one destination ...getting back her twins and putting Ram down .
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Thank you for your kind words Susan.

I agree that Leona "turning" AnaJu to dance with Gael was very sweet. It seems that at the very least she does want her children to have a good relationship with their father.

I especially appreciated this: "When Ram was terrorizing Benja in the church, did it cross Ben's mind that Gael was about his age when the tragic events around his birth took place ? Maybe that will finally allow Ben to forgive Gael. He and Gael had such a warm relationship when they first met and it kept growing stronger. They both heard the call of the sangre". Surely that occurred to Benja, a smart and loving kid, right?? He is too kindhearted not to forgive Gael (I say hopefully).

As always, your thoughtful and kind analysis gave us this pearl of wisdom: "the writers only let Gael daydream about making love to Leona. Why? Will the writers ever let that happen? Are they punishing Gael, too?" Why yes, I think they are. They really are...

Diana
 

ETERNAMENTE

Jarifa, thank you for the fantastic recap. Summarizing the events by character was inspired and really helped fill in all my many blanks.

Blanca was persistent bless her poor, deluded heart. Yes, I fear she has every intention of harming herself but hopefully, nothing dire will occur.

Rogelio looked thunderstruck when he sees Erika. The past appears in the flesh to haunt him.

How is Felipa going to live with herself for setting the crib on fire? I shudder to think what Imelda is going to have her do next.

Loved Paula throwing up on her boss!

Rogelio's gifts are grand but there is something about him that bothers me; I can't quite put my finger on it. Yet.

Diana
 

Eternamente 15-17

Gracias, Jarifa. 3 into two hours means missing stuff and the most important thing that's missing is that Erica has something terminal. I guess she's back to tell Rogelio he's already a father so he can assume custody of Lucas when she is on her way out of this mortal coil. This can be a new test -- and a heavy one -- of Paula's ability to forgive.

She and Rogelio need to get out of that gilded cage and the sooner the better, but that would cut back severely on the Mama Drama.

There was a flashback to Erica's confrontation with Martina in a previous episode. Martina was just as nasty to her as she has been to Paula and I want to know more about that. We don't know anything about her family but medical school doesn't come cheap. So far it looks like Martina married in cold blood for money and social advancement and is determined to see her sons share her misery. Control freaks like her are seriously miserable people who can't stand to see happiness in others, especially their family members. Therefore both Erica and Paula are the same in her eyes when she sees love and loyalty as a zero-sum game. When she finds out that Lucas is Rogelio's child she will have a conniption. That makes her first two grandchildren "lesser than" in her eyes because she regards both their mothers as trash.

Waterlily, I agree with you about Eva and Blanca. Eva was immensely foolish for her actions. I think that Martina isn't throwing her out now in the hope that she will try something else that Martina can use to throw shade on Paula.

Now, the last time Marco was drunk, did he voh-dee-oh-doh-doh with Blanca? If she urns up pregnant that could cause Martina to really require hospitalization. I also agree that demanding that Michaela marry her off against her will shouts volumes about Martina.

Fernando is a total idiot and a jerk. Both he and Imelda deserve what's happening to them.

I don't know how much of Ignacio's story to believe.

Fidel is likely to dig up some very interesting dirt on the Wild Sisters. And who is Imelda's sperm donor?


O/T

Weirdo, I agree. Two Gran Estrenos on the same night is too much. And we still don't know whether this series is going back to single-hour episodes.


 

Invencible

Have the writers been playing with us like a cat with mice ? I went back to look at some old episodes . When Leona decided to seduce Gael and get him to marry her to get close enough to Ram to take him down , we saw her disgusted looks after Gael kissed and sweet talked her . He was falling deeper in love , but she had that weird, stony look. Then , the water globe and Eggos seemed to melt her a little, and I thought " who could resist Gael?" The romantic music and Kisses that we were shown were misleading. Daniel played Gael as the galan. Maybe he is the one who tricked us.We wanted Gael to win back Leona. I guess now we are supposed to believe that it has all been an act with Gael for Leona and she wants David . okay. Maybe Daniel was just too good at making everyone in the audience fall in love with him....but ......not hard hearted revenge driven Leona , who will always be just a dream for Gael. Hello, Gael thinks he has gotten Mar back. What is left of Mar wants her kids with her and Ram gone ....and is jealous of David with anyone else ...but I dont think she truly loves David . Angelique doesn't seem to ever light up for either Gael or David ...only for her twins. Maybe the trauma that Mar endured at such a young age damaged her for romance and love forever . This show is starting to remind me of " Fatmagul" , my favorite telenovela , actually it is can excellent Turkish dizi. It is about a traumatized young woman and her terms journey and the galan's journey too. A very strong
Woman story .

In most telenovelas that we love, the leads both realize fairly early on that they are soul mates destined to be together. Often there is a bad girl trying to get the galan and a bad guy trying to get the leading lady. This show is not what I expected.
 

ETERNAMENTE

Diana, thanks. Paula throwing up on that old letch was unforgettable. He couldn’t jump back fast enough. I feel sorry for Felipa. Imelda has no scruples. Blanca has to live but where.

Urban, thanks for adding that Erika is ill and that is why she came back so her son could be with his father if she doesn’t make it. That was in #15/16 but got lost in my notes as I am sure other things will as this rolls on. You get the feeling that Marco and Blanca did it but it has never been said directly. I so hope Blanca doesn’t turn up pregnant.
 

Eternamente

Thanks, Jarifa, I liked the character paragraphs. So much happened in the two hours!

I really like Erika. I think she will respect Paula’s marriage. So Martina threatened her with losing her job, a pretty big thing if you’re a doctor. Wait till she finds out the girl she pushed on her sons is illegitimate. I didn’t realize both sisters were wild. I thought just Irma was.

Eva was really stupid. She needs to go back to Mexico City. Or at least explain to the guy that she’s an uninvited guest with no money. I’m glad she got caught. Much as I don’t like Martina and Imelda, it was very wrong to steal from them.

Imelda is really something. I fear for the life of Paula’s baby in the future. And I felt sorry for Martina in that scene, briefly! Fernando is going to get involved in Ignacio’s dishonest doings. He’s really not to bright. His wife will be his downfall.

I’m really surprised Imelda is the one who wants to leave. I thought she wanted to be in the house, close to Rogelio. I have a tough time liking him. I can’t wait to see what happens with Erika and him!

Liz
 

Eternamente

Thank you Jarifa, your notes are fantastic as always!

It’s interesting to see the dynamic where a doctor isn’t good enough for mommy! Usually it’s the doctor that mommy wants instead of an alternative. But Martina only wants ambitionless society girls she can manipulate into being silent and obedient. What a nightmare!

Lucas is adorable! Loved the look on Rogelio’s face when he first saw him and felt the ‘call of the blood’. I suspected Erika was sick, I am surprised we got confirmation already.

I really hope we get to go to an hour a day next week! Putting 3 episodes into 2? Why are they rushing?
 

Invencible

Thanks, Diana, I enjoyed the recap. The show itself is getting out of hand. I think Columba thinks she’s so irresistible that Ramses would never hurt her. I also think she’s very wrong!

Camila has known all along that David loved Leona. She was foolish to propose in front of a crowd. I feel that David said yes so he wouldn’t embarrass her. But then was too chicken to tell her no right away.

The portrait was beautiful and Gael should have won Leona with that. I can’t see her loving David. I think she’s just so used to his devotion that she gets hurt and jealous when she feels he’s interested in someone else.

Camila can continue her friendship with Clara. They’re both annoying. I think she’s grateful to David, that’s all.

It looks like we may have a lot of single people when this ends!

Liz
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Thank you Liz!

"The show itself is getting out of hand" is totally on target! It has gone off the rails and now, off the track, hurling into space.

I agree that the portrait would have cemented the deal for me. And while Leona was touched, I didn't sense any crack in the cement around her heart.

Columba is way overestimating herself and completely delusional in thinking Ramses cares about her. Her karma is coming...

Diana
 

ETERNAMENTE

Liz, thanks for adding about Martina threatening Erika. It really helps enrich the notes/highlights/recaps when others can add what they remembered.
Rogelio seems sort of shallow to me so far. Maybe Lucas will help him be the galán he is destined to be?

Darcy, who knows what Uni is thinking? I, too, wonder what the rush is. As for Martina, ITA that she wants to be and stay the Monarch (she wears a monarch butterfly pin) aka Queen Bee of her household. Any daighter-in-law is going to be a threat.
 

Eternamente 15-17

This series is 120 episodes long, so they might be shooting for a particular finale date. Per my On Demand list we're getting double episodes at least to the end of next week.

Imelda forcing Felipa to burn the cuna was a special act of cruelty. This hurt more than Martina, as it also hurt Paula, all four sons, and Felipa herself. When her husband finds out he will be devastated.

I can't wait until Imelda finds out she herself is illegitimate. She might actually do herself in and Martina would never survive that scandal.
 

ETERNAMENTE

Urban, too bad because this is an entertaining novela but too much is too much. My schedule says the same as yours but then again last Friday at the bottom of my tv screen as I was watching Uni, it said “Eternamente #15” but Messi madness was on the screen. Uni is a mess.




 

Eternamente

Jarifa, amazing work. I liked the way you organized things.

It's a mystery to me why Erika, an intelligent, independent woman, didn't tell Rogelio what Martina was doing to her. At least after completing medical school, why not let him know he had a kid? It's very sad that he missed out on the first 12 years of his son's life.

Poor Felipa. Does she understand that Imelda owns her now?

For some reason, I think Blanca is a cutter, which is bad enough, but will not try suicide. I guess we'll see tonight.

Now that Eva has been caught, will she at least tell Paula so she won't be blindsided?
 

ETERNAMENTE

Niecie, thanks. One would hope Eva would confess all to Paula. That is the least she could do after getting a nice comfy room at the mansion. Interesting concept about Blanca possibly being a cutter. I could see that. Must see tv tonight!
 

Eternamente 15-17

I doubt Eva will say anything about this. Paula will be blindsided and Martina will have had time to work on Rogelio to force a separation. You know how this typically works.

Diana Bracho's toxic mothers have traditionally been incredibly mean to daughters so nueras will fare just as badly. Or worse. Remember that in FELS Gabriela tried to kill Sofia.

More when I get home. I hate posting from my phone.
 

Eternamente
Imelda is illegitimate? I definitely missed this because I just thought her mother thought no one would want to marry her because of her sister's ruined reputation.
 

Invencible

Diana, perfect title and quotation. Hurray for the super team of Diana and Rgv Chick!

Oh well, they seem to be making it clear that Leona will not choose Gael. I'm just glad that ringmaster [Diana, you nailed it!] David didn't have the first dance with AnaJu and that she danced with and forgave Gael, remembering that he acted as her father all along.

If I were Camila, I'd be so jealous of Leona designing and sewing that beautiful gown for AnaJu. It's not a competition of course, but that would've hit me in the gut. In fact, I don't remember Camila doing anything to prepare for the party.

As for David, Camila proposed publically to a man who vowed to "try to love her." I'm glad he accepted (saving her public humiliation) and listened to Jacinta's good sense about breaking up pronto before Camila's wedding planning got out of hand.

In all this, where are the cheerleaders? Where's Flor?

Columba must really be feeling her pregnancy because she was wearing comfortable, roomy pants last night.
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Thanks so much Niecie!

Yes, thank heavens AnaJu (finally) remembered Gael "acted as her father all along".

David just inserts himself into every situation a bit too much for my taste. No wallflower, he. :)

You are right about Camila being perfectly content relegated to the background as she should because as you smartly pointed out, she contributed zilch (at least from our viewpoint). That did seem out of character, like you I would have been devastated seeing her in that magnificent "Creations by Leona" gown.

The fact the abducted women seem to have been forgotten has long been frustrating to me. Is there to be any resolution before this ends???

Diana
 

Invencible

Niecie,,yes, I thought the same . There is something special about a gift made especially for you by the hands of someone who loves you . Leona sews the gown for Anaju. Gael has his brother paint the portrait of Leona's family for her . And you are right, we never saw what Camila gave to Anaju for her special birthday . We saw that Jo gave her the cross necklace and Gael brought her the favorite stuffed toy from her childhood. Of course, then the party was interrupted . Maybe Camila just didn't have the chance to give Ana her special gift .

I had a thought that perhaps the reason Leona won't make love with Gael is because she can't because the last time she did, all hell broke loose . ...Ram killed her parents and sister , and she herself almost died and she thought both her babies had died. Maybe PTSD is what the writers are showing us ...that Leona just cannot bring herself to make love to Gael after the tragic events that happened after they made love when they were young and in love. Did Consuela ever get counseling for Mar ? Is this another PSA? Could she ever overcome this feeling with counseling ? That is what was shown in Fatmagul.
 

Eternamente 15-17

Speculation, not Spoiler: Martina will frame (or merely accuse) Paula of something that causes Rogelio to doubt her. Separation results, divorce a possibility. Rogelio will reunite with Erica who will die around episode 95, possibly hastened by Martina. It will take until episode 112 for Paula and Rogelio to reunite.

When Martina fessed up to the doctor that she feigned fainting I was concerned at the possibility of the writers trying to make light of this. This kind of manipulation is not funny.
 

"ETERNAMENTE":

UA: Martina & Co., must really hate Paula so much. Wondering why is that ? What is it about Paula that they HATE so much ?

I strongly agree with you about the manipulation not being funny.
 

"AMOR INVENCIBLE":

Jarifa, UA, Susan, Diana, Niecie & Co.,: Looks like the Gran Final is set for next Monday night July 31st. But will the Gran Final be 2 HRS or split into 2 different parts ?


 

Eternamente 15-17

Martina hates Paula for her individualistic ways just as much as not coming from the upper crust. If she were a concert pianist instead of a guitar-playing folk singer that would not make any difference.

Imelda hates Paula perhaps because of her independent spirit but mostly because she won the heart of the Crown Prince, Rogelio. By extension Fernando hates her because of the same class snobbery as Martina's.

Has anyone here ever been to Morelia? Considering its cultural importance and its art community I find it incongruous that its upper crust would be as stuffy as Martina implies.
 

Eternamente

Jarifa , thank you for going above and beyond to recap so many episodes compacted together . Why is Uni doing this to so many shows ?

Imelda is hard to watch . I dislike her more than Martina. I was confused that she seemed to be nice to Fernando in this episode. Has she lost interest in Rogelio?

I have seen the actor playing Rogelio in several shows . He isn't as likable in this show.

So, Irma wasn't the only wild child in the family . Beatriz was wild, too. Was she wild with Hipolito ,too? Is he Imelda's father ?
 

ETERNAMENTE AMANDONOS #17/18 Part One


Highlights from the couch . . .

BLANCA has indeed managed to cut a wrist with a box cutter and is on the verge of passing out when Paula finds her in the bathroom. She, Micaela and Honorio take her to the hospital. Blanca didn't lose much blood and is released hour later. Paula confronts Martina about wanting to force Blanca to marry somebody to get her out of the house. She has no right to do that. Rogelio comes in and hears from Martina that Marco and Blanca were having sex right under their noses in her house. Rogelio puts the blame on Marco. Blanca doesn't like that. He tries to meet with Marco but Marco blows him off. When they finally meet up, Marco is very disrespectful talking about Blanca so Rogelio punches him in the mouth and he falls on the ground. They reconcile later. Marco tries to make amends with Blanca but she isn't having it. Blanca still wants her out so Micaela threatens to leave, too. Rogelio tells his mother they are both staying. Blanca suddenly has all the support of the brothers, the staff and Paula who wants to take her under her wing, get her back to school and hire her half day as receptionist at the school to prove that she is somebody and not nobody.

MARTINA has a flashback and we now know why she sees marrying off Blanca as being no big idea. Her own father married her off to Hipólito who he saw as a good and appropriate match. When she said she didn't love him, her father said that she would learn to love him in her marriage.

EVA leaves the house with Honorio. Martina has given him a check. He is to cash it and give the cash to Eva so she can pay her debt. He is also supposed to follow her without her seeing him so they know where she went. Eva goes to pay the Patch aka One Eye. He takes the money but tells her that they are going to want another installment. She threatens to call the police and leaves.

IMELDA's parents tell her and Martina they want to give her and Fernando a house as a wedding gift. Fernando says that is too bad because the house they wanted has been sold to . . . THEM. He has already made a down payment. Martina is not pleased. Rodrigo is upset and wants to know where Fernando got the money from. He says he got a loan from the bank. Rogelio is upset about all the interest he is going to pay. Little does he know that Fernando used the advance that Ignacio gave him from the illegal gasoline business he is in with him. Imelda has a big change in attitude with Fernando now that she is getting her house and meets him in a red nightie. Beatriz asks her if her name is on the title. Imelda doesn't know and doesn't care.

MARCO is out playing pool with his novia. He explains that he is bummed out because he has a friend who tried to kill herself because of a love gone bad. His novia thinks it is better to never love to that point. That seems to make Marco stop and have second thoughts about her. The novia sees he is in a serious mood. She leaves saying they can get together another day when they can have fun.

IMELDA tells Martina that Ignacio is a partner is Paula's business.

IGNACIO and Cecilia are now lovers. It is wondrous what some flowers and a bottle of wine can do.

MELITON is concerned that he might be the reason that Felipa cannot get pregnant. She tells him no worries. She will always love and keep hi mno matter what. That puts him at peace.


 

ETERNAMENTE Part Two

ROGELIO wonders why ERIKA is at the grand opening. It turns out that her son is attending Paula's music school. Rogelio admits that he knows Erika to Paula but only as an excellent doctor that used to live in Morelia but then moved away. He never tells Paula the truth about who Erika is in this episode. He keeps putting it off. He tells his brothers to not tell their mother, Paula or Imelda who Erika is and that she is back in town. Rogelio catches up to Erika and asks her why did she leave town like she did without a trace. She will only say to ask his mother. He tells her that he wants her to stay away from Paula. He will not allow her to come back and insert herself in his life. He asks his mother if she knows why Erika left all that time ago. She has no info for him. Rogelio wants to know what his mother said so he keeps trying to get in contact with Erika but he does not know that she is incommunicado because she is going through a couple of days medical tests.

LUCAS is left in the care of his auntie Pato while his mother is supposedly at a "medical conference." When this aunt get the news of Erika having to be away an extra day, Lucas is at the music school. (He wants to be a drummer.) Paula offers to help Pati out and invites Lucas to the family cookout that Martina has planned. Pati lets him go. Paula introduces Lucas to everyone at the cookout. Martina asks where his mother is. Paula answers she is out of town. Paula adds that Rogelio knows her. Her name is Erika Maldonado. WHOOPSIE!

Feel free to add anytihg I left out.
 

ETERNAMENTE

I really liked how they handled Blanca’s broken heart and suicide attempt. They didn’t rush over it. They made it important as it would be to any teenager.I didn’t mention it in my highlights but Paula thought she should also get some counseling as well. I also liked how Rogelio found Marco his baby bro snd talked to him like a father would. It was clear that Marco probably needed a father’s attention more than the others. As for Martina’s past, all I can say is “Yikes!” She wasn’t born a bitter old soul.


 

ETERNAMENTE

Jarifa, another excellent outing. I love your sense of humor and wry wit.

"IGNACIO and Cecilia are now lovers. It is wondrous what some flowers and a bottle of wine can do" had me laughing away. I thought Cecilia had more sense.

"He tells his brothers to not tell their mother, Paula or Imelda who Erika is and that she is back in town". Huh? Where are they finding these "galans", at the Dollar Store??Rogelio isn't walking, he is running down the path of hidden secrets and out and out lying. How foolish Paula is going to feel when she finds out. Speaking of dollars, I would bet at least one that Imelda spills this stew before Rogelio does. WTH??

"Beatriz asks her if her name is on the title. Imelda doesn't know and doesn't care". Really? The conniving little witch doesn't realize how important that is? Cunning but definitely not too bright. I gave her far too much credit.

I don't know what Blanca said to Marco but it seems she handled herself with dignity as Marco (finally) seemed a bit ashamed. Marco's gf seems to want to take it easy - fun with no strings attached. She hardly seems like a one man woman.

Diana
 

ETERNAMENTE

Thanks, Diana. Glad you liked my humor. Yes, Marco was rightfully ashamed because Blanca took full responsibility for herself and didn’t blame him. No, she didn’t want his cookies. She also reminded him that he told her not to come into his room without being invited, well, she was asking him to do the same. He had just barged in with the cookies unannounced. Uh oh! Rogelio is clearly cruising for a bruising with not being honest both Paula. What is his problem with telling her the truth?
 

ETERNAMENTE

Jarifa, I'm glad Blanca gave Marco a taste of his own medicine. She was pleasant but firm. She is just as entitled to privacy as he is.

Telling Paula now would be bad enough but if he waits and someone beats Rogelio to it, things will be far, far worse. Paula has been nothing but honest and genuine with him. Sad to say the reverse isn't true. :(

Diana
 

El amor invencible Capitulo 76

Part 1 of 3

Columba and Orlando are plotting how to destroy Gael, Ramses and Leona.

At the party, Calixto is threatening everyone at gun point and actually shooting Gael and Cristobal (one in the leg, the other in the foot). Then he grabs Theo, pointing a gun at him, while Leona offers herself instead. But Cal only wants AnaJu, who agrees to go with him, while being threatened. They leave together, with David, Benja and a sobbing Leona in the street, following them. Leona has flashbacks of her parents being killed.
Romeo witnesses the whole thing and calls Ramses, who goes mad with rage.

Lola is worried, not knowing where Cal is. And there he comes with AnaJu, gagged. Lola is shocked, Cal asks Jerm to deal with his daughter.
AnaJu can’t believe Cal would do this to her, she loved him! He is with two guys, asking them to prepare the “transfer”. They gag her again, she starts screaming, while Lola overhears and asks Jerm to do something to help her. Jerm shows her they are already being searched by the police. Lola is in a panic, that’s not how she wanted to become rich! She asks Cal to let AnaJu free, but he won’t do it. As the goons take AnaJu away, Lola realizes she is in deep sh!t and says she wants out. She is sobbing into her father’s arms, but it’s a bit late for that.

Clara is praying, Gael is in surgery. Flor arrives to Leona and Camila’s rage about the authorities never helping. The two mothers try to find comfort in each other, together they will find their daughter.

Romeo is back and tells Ramses that Cal took AnaJu. Then Cal calls and Ramses threatens him while Cal promises he will sell his grand-daughter to the highest bidder (and Columba looks on, satisfied).

Gael recovers from his operation, remembering the kidnapping. Josefa and Matias are with him, he wants to leave the hospital when he finds out AnaJu is still missing.

Ramses tries to reach his police guy, who isn’t helping this time. Columba says everything is Leona’s fault, Ramses should just sacrifice AnaJu to make Leona suffer.

Leona is doing a video asking for people’s help finding her daughter. And also she is asking of Calixto, her kidnapper, to bring her daughter back. And Ramses, know that your grand-daughter is suffering because of your stupid war.

Later Leona is with Gael, they are both desperate, but the police has no clues. Leona thinks she should have done more, she has decided to exchange herself for AnaJu. Cal once wanted to abuse her, so she will negotiate with him.

 

El amor invencible Capitulo 76

Part 2 of 3

AnaJu is being held in a truck with a lot of other girls and huge chunks of meat. Still gagged, hands tied above her head, she remembers her confrontation with Ramses, then her talks with Camila, Leona and Gael.

Ramses is in a frenzy, trying to find Cal. Columba shows him Leona’s video.

Benja and Jacinta talk about how worried they are about AnaJu. They decide to pray for her wellbeing.

It’s morning and some goons arrive to take AnaJu from the truck.
Ramses is still on the phone, trying to reach Orlando, who is not answering. Columba is acting very cool about it, which enrages Ramses, he supposes she is happy with the situation. Col says she never betrayed him, but Ramses threatens her not to touch his grand-son, Benja. Col says “too late”.

Back at the vecindad, some present arrived, apparently from Gael. David wants to check it out, it’s an American football, Gael knew Benja likes the sport, there is a handwritten note, the gift appears legit. Benja says that after confronting Ramses he understands Gael better, besides he tried to save AnaJu putting his own life in danger. While David frowns with his stupid face (I can’t even!!!) Leona thinks they should all forgive and she and Jacinta hug Benja.
He really wants to believe Gael changed, he doesn’t want to keep all that hate in his heart. Leona confirms this and even David has to agree.
Benja grabs the ball and wants to throw it at David to play, but the ball explodes in his hand, above his head. The explosion is so strong, they all fall to the ground.
The grown-ups are OK, but Benja is not responding. At first we can only see his bloodied hand, but then we realize half of his face has been severely burned, too.

Ramses is mad when he finds out Columba sent Benja a bomb. She hates the boy because he is Leona’s son. Ramses pushes her into a couch and she hits her stomach. She is afraid she will lose her baby, Ramses says if this happens, she will die, too. And sure enough, she starts bleeding.
Ramses leaves, some man is at the door, trying to open, but she can barely crawl to open, begging him to save her baby.

AnaJu is being taken to an abandoned building, where Calixto is waiting for her. He plans to take her to Europe, but first she will meet her new master: Orlando!! And she is supposed to be a gift for Romeo, who is also there. They both decided to go against Ramses.
Romeo gets all “loving” with AnaJu, they will become novios again.

An ambulance is taking Benja, while Leona is checking the note that came with the gift, saying this is not Gael’s writing.

 

El amor invencible Capitulo 76

Part 3 of 3

Calixto calls Camila, she is willing to give him anything for her daughter. All that Cal wants is Leona.
She is arriving at the hospital just then, Camila gives her Cal’s message. Leona asks her not to tell anyone about the call, she will agree to Cal’s deal, she just asks of Camila to take care of AnaJu, tell her how much she loves her and protect Benja, too, make sure he will be OK. Camila feels awful Leona has to do this, but Leona knows there is no other way.
Leona gets a call, too, it’s Ramses, calling her back after her video message. She accuses him of causing all of AnaJu’s pain. She tells him about Cal’s negotiation demand, Ramses urges her to accept, asks her to form an union to help AnaJu.

Columba finds out she lost her baby. She starts screaming, not because of the baby, but because she realizes she is now lost.

Leona and David (ugh!) tell Gael about Benja, who is in surgery. David says Benja has always been so strong, ever since he was a baby. Leona feels like she is only causing tragedies for her kids. David tells Gael the gift was sent by someone pretending to be him and Gael immediately recognizes Columba’s writing. Leona thinks Cal and Col are in cahoots, both attacks happened at the same time.

Romeo and Orlando have brought AnaJu to the house for now (she is to be taken to Estonia at a later date). She is still tied. Romeo removes her gag and AnaJu spits him, so Romeo tries to slap her. Orlando stops him and takes AnaJu upstairs and locks her into a room.
There is another girl there, she has been missing for a long time, she says she has been abused and locked in there, left for dead. AnaJu promises they will get out.

The doctor arrives saying Benja will live, but his burns are very serious. There is no need for an amputation, but there will be some mobility problems with his hand. Besides, his face was badly hurt, he lost sight in his right eye. Gael asks about a cornea transplant, but the doctor doesn’t want to give them false hope. David would like to see the hand results. Leona and Jacinta hug.

Jerm has been shopping (!), Lola can’t believe he’s using Cal’s credit card. He wants them both to prepare to leave. Lola can’t get over seeing AnaJu, she wanted to be rich, but she never thought it would be like this. She can’t deal with it.

The cops tracked the credit card, which is in Cal’s name, David tells Jacinta and Matis, but not Leona or Camila, who have enough to deal with.


 

Invencible

Ok, this episode has been a lot! So much drama, so many things going bad at once, my head is spinning.

Diana, thank you for yesterday's recap, I never got a chance to read it before starting to write my own. You said it so well, everything is about to become 100 shades of messy.
It was touching to finally see AnaJu forgive Gael and last night even Benja, a teenager, admitted that Ramses was scary and Gael was justified to be afraid of him. Geez! Finally, someone saying the obvious.
It's a shock to me to see all these people accuse Gael of never manning up when he was 18, while all of them are now adults and still unable to defeat Ramses.

A good news did come out of this capitulo, Columba's baby was spared having to be born (sorry, but it is what it is). Ramses appears to have lost all his allies, but I have a hard time believing that Calixto will better him.
I should be mad that Gael is in a hospital bed while David is doing his usual hero routine, but I think I'm now resigned, I just want this to be over so I can start anticipating Daniel Elbittar's next role (and if he's not the galan there, I swear to God!!!)


 

INVENCIBLE

Thank you, Adriana, for an excellent recap of the most grotesque episode yet. I agree with your take on Columba’s baby having “been spared.”

The worst: young women hanging in a butcher truck with “pieces of meat.” Talk about sick symbolism. I am out of here until the gran final.
 

Invencible

Dear Adriana, thanks so much for having the mental resilience to watch and recap this episode. You did it so well, too!

I agree that Columba's baby not being born is the best thing that happened in the episode. It may sound harsh, but honestly, the baby's life was saved by not getting born.

Where do I even start... Columba is an absolute IDIOT for going against AnaJu and Benja when Ramsés has threatened her 5.000.000 times that she'll regret it if she does. And with the baby gone, it's safe to say she won't make it to the end. Sorry not sorry!

What did Lola expect when she heard "Cali" is trafficking women? And she just thinks they'll let her back off now? What an idiot. I'm sick and tired of her.

Why does Gael exist in this novela? The writers just make him stand there and let David have all the action! David honestly should change jobs, he should be a lifeguard or something, so his hero syndrome gets satisfied. But honestly, GAEL! DO SOMETHING!

Jeremías used Calixto's credit card? The stupidity meter is over 100 with these two.

I hope we don't get Jer and Cal defeating Ram. We should at least get Gael to give him the final blow (either metaphorically or literally).

I'm happy we only have 4 episodes left. I originally wanted to take a break after this, but Vencer la Culpa will start right after it so...
 

eternamente
Jerifa, thank you for providing the details of that scene with Martina and her father because in my episode it got cut off and I kept wondering what she told her father.
I feel so sorry for Blanca and at the same time the reactions of even the good guys confuse me. Everyone is like 'we aren't judging you'. I was like but what would give you the right to? And why would you judge her anyway? I believe Rogelio said Marco seduced her. Blanca seems a lot younger than him. I think I can't fully understand the situation because it seems to be mostly a class issue. But it feels like something from the 19th century. It's like a strange version of Jane Eyer or something similar. How old Blanca is? Another thing that surprised me was Blanca saying 'I am worth nothing'. This has to come from somewhere. So is it being a servant that has made her like this? Because I don't believe it's just her being in love and not being reciprocated that is the problem. It feels more that this just brought her issues to the surface.
But Rogelio also told Marco that he cana't treat Blanca the way he treats other girls because Blanca is alone and grew up with them. Such a strange thing to say. He can't treat women like that in general. So if Blanca had no one but wasn't their staff member, he could do whatever he wanted with her? I'd love to slap him for that line. Marco's attitude to women is troubling in general. I'd love him to get a taste of his own medicine.
I find it interesting that Martina delegates the responsibility of solving her kids' issues to Rogelio here.on the one hand, it's good Marco has someone to talk to. On the other, it's a lot to ask of Rogelio. This idea of siblings taking on the paternal role doesn't sit right with me. But I shudder to think what would happen if Martina had a daughter.
So is Martina now bitter that she didn't get to choose whom to marry? Because I doubt she just had come to believe that arranged marriage is the answer and actually a pretty good thing. She must not love her kids if it matters more to herthat they marry a girl she can ccontrol than that they marry someone they choose. Is this some kind of punishment?
Erika said it's never too late when talking about getting Rogelio back. It's the fact that Paula is 'nice' and loves him that seems to be stopping her. But I wonder if she might suddenly change her mind about this. It doesn't occur to her that Rogelio might not love her anymore or what? I mean, they are in love, so what does she imagine she could do?
 

Invencible

Cher Adriana, merci for that excellent, detailed recap of a truly horrific episode . It seems that the writers want to take us out with a with a nightmare of events.

Right off the bat, the writers continue their mission to emasculate Gael and once again push David next to Leona to comfort her and be her faithful bodyguard. Ugh.
Gael steps forward to face Cal and is immediately shot in the leg putting him in the hospital out of David's way . ugh Daniel did his best to come off as assertive and upset in his hospital bed .He got to identify Col's handwriting on the note. Wow. Why do the writers hate Gael and consistently push him to the back of the pack? Gael is always left behind. Why? Who made this decision to make Gael weak and wondering ? The final straw for me last night was when the doctor gave the news about Benja's injuries , Leona did not go to Garl, her husband and Ben's father but to Jacinta . That said it all to me. Leona has completed lost the love she had for teenage Gael. When we see the young actress playing Mar so in love with Gael, there is no spark of her left in Leona. The writers do not want Gael To be the galan even though they gave us some scenes that made it seem possible.

If only Benja had thrown that pass a little faster to David. Sorry...that was mean spirited. I really dont want anything bad to happen to this good Samaritan . I just want him to simmer down and give up on Leona.

I have noticed that Leona wears all kind of outfits some of which I like better than others, but the wardrobe department has been putting Col in a kind of uniform...A tight,fitted sheath dress with long sleeves in solid colors ...red, black, ivory, purple, tan . It's like they had one pattern and lots of solid colored fabrics. I wish we had been told how Ram met Col and Cal . Was Col in a brothel? Was she trafficked ? I guess we will have to use our imaginations.
 

Eternamente 18/19

Gracias, Jarifa. You nailed it.

I think Imelda is still deluding herself that she has any shot at Rogelio who is likely to inherit the mansion.

Martina's past is no surprise. However, she appears ignorant of Hypolito's infidelities and Beatriz's past, so she isn't as smart as she thinks she is.

Cecelia is an idiot to get involved with Ignacio. He is waiting for the opportunity to pull the rug out from under Paula.

Rogelio never knew about the confrontation between Martina and Erica. Since Martina won't talk he has to ask Erica and get an answer. I completely agree that he should not put off telling Paula even one more day.

Class distinction is probably never going away in humankind, especially when combined with greed.
 

Invencible
I am starting to wonder how the actor who plays David feels about his role. Is that frown supposed to suggest he is so jealous of Gael that he'd prefer Benja to hate him for the rest of his life? Why? It's clear Leona doesn't love Gael. David, you stupid insufferable idiot, you won. Happy now? I just can't. If they won't give Daniel a galan role next time, I swear I'll learn enough Spanish to write them a letter and say how stupid their writing was in this telenovela.
How can Columba be so stupid? It's the first time I see a character being willing to risk their own life just to satisfy their feeling of deep hatred. But her and Lola having the same stupidity gene makes me wonder if they are related.
Is it worth for Orlando to go against Ramses? Or is he another one who didn't think things through. I don't get why he thinks siding with Calixto is any good. All these bad guys underestimate Ramses. How can they be so dumb? Orlando 'baught' Ana Ju for Romeo? What a pair of... I can't believe Orlando was once Romeo's mother's client (did I remember that correctly) and now teaches his son to be just as vile.
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Adriana,

Thank you for persevering through this stomach churning, depressing episode. You did a marvelous job despite the content being so horrific as to cause extreme emotional duress.

“It's a shock to me to see all these people accuse Gael of never manning up when he was 18, while all of them are now adults and still unable to defeat Ramses” said it all.

“Columba looks on, satisfied” perfectly encapsulated her expressions. “Ramses threatens her not to touch his grand-son, Benja. Col says “too late”. Her obsession over Leona ended up outweighing her fear for her life which will come to an end quite quickly I imagine.

The scene where the young women were hanging next to sides of beef was vomit inducing. “Sick symbolism” indeed Jarifa. I felt for the young actors’ emotional well being after having to enact such gut wrenching scenes. I will long remember Lola and AnaJu’s harrowing scene, AnaJu frantic, bound, gagged, being carried away, eyes imploring a horrified Lola to help her. The two real life sisters were incredible.

“Why does Gael exist in this novela? The writers just make him stand there and let David have all the action!” Weirdo, very well said. Gael lying in the hospital bed with David in the thick of everything (once again) leaves little doubt in my mind as to how this will turn out.

More later.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

"If only Benja had thrown that pass a little faster to David. Sorry...that was mean spirited. I really dont want anything bad to happen to this good Samaritan . I just want him to simmer down and give up on Leona" had me smiling grimly Susan; I don't want David hurt, just out!!

I hadn't realized "The final straw for me last night was when the doctor gave the news about Benja's injuries , Leona did not go to Garl, her husband and Ben's father but to Jacinta". Thank you for pointing that out. Gael's mistreatment by the writers is really hard to take.

"I am starting to wonder how the actor who plays David feels about his role. Is that frown supposed to suggest he is so jealous of Gael that he'd prefer Benja to hate him for the rest of his life? Why?" was a great point waterlily. David scowls and resents any bit of affection given to Gael. Yes, he's won but can't even be a bit gracious in his "victory". Ack.

Diana
 

ETERNAMENTE

waterlily, I wonder what Erika has in mind to perhaps rekindle her romance with Rogelio since her time on this earth might be severely limited. Yes, it seems like Rogelio had to be the surrogate father for his younger brothers, hardly fair to him but probably a common occurrence in similar familial situations. As for Martina, perhaps she should have gotten over having an arranged marriage by now, but there are some things people never get over. I wonder if she had another boy friend at the time.

Urban, Cecilia is just plain stupid when it comes to Ignacio. He has all the appropriate accoutrements but there is no feeling behind his dead eyes. ITA that Imelda is living in fantasy land if she thinks the mansion will some day be hers. As for Rogelio, I cannot wait to see the rest of the cook-out tonight now that Martina’s ears have been perked with Erika’s name.
 

Eternamente

Thanks, Jarifa, that was excellent and explains so much.

I loved the scene with Rogelio and his brother when Rogelio found Marco in his spot and they made up. Rogelio does have a lot of responsibility.

Watching Blanca going through her heartbreak made me remember other girls when I was a teen being devastated over a breakup. I probably was too but I guess I always felt I would get over it and find someone special-and I did!

I love all the secrets in this show. We know they all will be revealed, but how and when?

I didn’t realize Erika wants Rogelio, I like her and hope she’ll only want him to take Lucas if she dies.

Eva was very compassionate to Blanca. I like her again. But I hope she really calls the police on that guy.

Ignacio is getting members of the family to be in debt to him. Except Paula would be too smart so he zeroed in on her partner and so Paula has no idea they owe him.

I agree, Imelda is the worse character, at least with Martina you know exactly who she is.

Liz
 

Enters hence

Jarifa, thank you for going above and beyond to give us an excellent account of three mashed up episodes. Does Uni have so many new shows that it wants to hurry this show along ?

I think that the punch from and the talk with Rogelio may have straightened Marco up , and he will redeem himself. He will start to see the difference between shallow ,blonde biker chick and sweet, innocent Blanca.

Igy,'s floppy hair and equally floppy morals are annoying.

I got a kick out of whatever the hairdresser was pretending to do to Beatriz's hairdo.

Lucas is adorable . How can anyone resist him?
 

Eternamente

Jarifa, thank you once again for your fantastic highlights from the couch! It helps so much to sum up what we saw especially after 2 hours!!!

I hate to say it but so far I just think Rogelio is a big entitled arrogant idiot!!! It bugged me so much how he kept trying to get a hold of Erika so he can tell her to leave Paula alone and stay out of his life. Note to stupid: If you have to track someone down to tell them to leave you alone - they probably aren't as interested in your life as your inflated ego tells you they are. Yes, Erika knows who Paula is, yes, Erika put her son in Paula's school and yes, she's admitted to having feelings still for Rogelio, but so far she hasn't done overly much to ingratiate herself to Paula or Rod's life - dude chill! On that note, it really doesn't make much sense to me that Rogelio is trying to keep Paula from finding out about Erika since he doesn't yet know that Lucas is his....what's the 'big' secret? That he has an ex-girlfriend?? Hey honey, Erika and I used to date 10 years ago....who cares??? And before I forget the idiot angle, when he actually looked shocked at Erika's suggestion that mommy could have had something to do with her leaving town I actually laughed out loud! How could he have grown up with that mother and still have no idea how controlling she is???

Entitled comes in with how he yells at Fernando for getting a loan to buy his house!! Dude, it's none of your business!!! Why do you get to mandate your adult brother's financial choices?? I can see it if he was gambling or drug laundering or something; but dude got a mortgage (supposedly), pipe down!!!

Marco deserved it so I won't say anything there but Marco too is an adult so I don't see it as Martina delegating responsibility for solving his problems because she isn't responsible for solving her adult son's problems, he SHOULD be capable of that himself and his brothers can smack him upside the head for being an ass...I don't think Marco truly believes half the things he says, all I hear is bravado...


Martina is a trip and a half. She could keep a mental health professional busy for years!!
 

Hmmmm. " enters hence" was autocorrects correction to " Eternamente" It tries so hard to help me .
 

Invencible

Thanks, Adriana, what an episode. Columba and Cal-just pure evil. Stupid Lola, what did she think sex trafficking involved.

It made me mad that Gael was hurt, leaving David the opening to be the hero.

Romeo let’s Ramses know that Cal took AnaJu. I guess that was pre planned as he obviously knew he was getting her.

I’m ready for Leona to join with Ramses and take the bad guys out.

Liz
 

Eternamente

Liz, I have a 16 year old in my life going through her first heartbreak , and I shared my first heartbreak at 16 with her and assured her she is going to meet her prince . you just have to kiss a couple frogs before you get to him. I think she believed me .
 

Invencible

I am confused about Orlando. He suddenly showed up as Romeo's father and evidently had done business with Ram and Col.He let Ram and Col stay with him . When Gael showed up and confronted him about Romeo raping Kika, he obviously knew Gael. Now, he "bought" Anaju from Cal to "give" to Romeo. Why? Is this his way of getting back at Gael for punching him in the stomach for saying it was Kika's fault and throwing Romeo around? Or is he getting back at Ram for some reason . Did I miss something ? I guess for Cal , it's just about the money , and he never had any love for Anaju. Awful .

I agree that the young actresses being in that truck hanging with those sides of pig? Was awful and disturbing . I hope they got some counseling for that scene. I felt worried about the young actress playing Anaju enduring those abduction scenes . That would be hard at any age , but she is so young .
 

Eternament 18/19

It definitely looks as though Rogelio became parentified when Marco was a small child. However his anger at Fernando is justifiable for a reason he doesn't know yet: Ignacio. He has already gotten on Fernando's case for bad decisions. It is unlikely that he will find out about the back-market gasoline for a while and that is something that could destroy them all.

Is Paula's school meant to be all about music? It looks too much like a regular elementary school.
 

ETERNAMENTE

Liz, excellent observation: "Ignacio is getting members of the family to be in debt to him." He is clearly going for broke in destroying the Itubride family. I cannot wait until Paula finds out what a weasel Cecilia has been. Talking about the large amount of secrets, how many more are going to pop up?

Susan, ITA that Marco may have turned the corner into being a better man after the Rogelio talk and feeling what he did when the blondie gave him the brush off at the pool hall when he probably would have liked her emotional support. Ignacio always looks like needs a good bath to me. Yuk.

Darcy, I agree that Rogelio is definitely flawed and not a galán yet. I can understand that he is sick of being responsible for the business and the family. He seems like a self-entitled shallow mope most of the time. I think he is like he is because of Martina making him the little man of the household and he is still afraid of her as if he were still eight years old. That is why he will not confront Martina about the most important issues and keeps avoiding telling Paula the truth because he fears their rejection. If he can ever get over his fear of confrontation, he will be galán material. He is useless to Paula, Erika nd Lucas right now. As for Marco, Martina should tell him university, work or you are out with no $$$ at your disposal but she only talks a good game with Marco. There is no follow through. How many times have we heard her rag on him about not attending university and we are only 18 epsiodes in.
 

Eternamente

Jarifa, excellent Notes from the Couch, as always. Such a treat.

My favorite scene was Micaela standing up to Martina, "If Blanca goes, I go too!"

I hope with Paula's lead, Blanca moves on from Marco. Marco will probably mature and become a better man, but Blanca needs to find her own joy.

Erika sadly is sick, but she got on my last nerve telling Rogelio, "Ask you mother." Mujer, isn't your main aim to leave Lucas in a loving situation? Stop prattling around and tell Rogelio what you need him to know. Viewerville is getting impatient.

I did get a kick out of Rogelio's surprise that dumb Fernando had bought his own house.
 

Invencible

Gracias, Adriana. My word, you took one for the team last night covering this horrific episode!

I'm wondering, after this can it get even more violent?

"As the goons take AnaJu away, Lola realizes she is in deep sh!t and says she wants out."

Finally, Lola has seen the light, uh, the darkness and depravity. I'm wondering if she will actually do something to help.

Gael with Leona does seem a lost cause, but I haven't given up that Gael becomes the main one to protect his kids.
 

ETERNAMENTE

Niecie, thanks. "Stop prattling around and tell Rogelio what you need him to know. Viewerville is getting impatient." You better believe it. I expect that from Martina but not Erika. The petulant attitude doesn't fit a mother who could be dying. Yes, Micaela was at her best. : )
 

ETERNAMENTE AMANDONOS #19/20 Page One


Highlights from the couch . . .

Things were popping out all over tonight.

BLANCA tells herself it is time for her to start a new life where she puts herself first. She cuts her hair to mark her transformation and takes steps to return to school. Marco tries to be friendly but she s having none of it. Better that they each do their own thing.

MARTINA is angry nobody told her that Erika was back in town and that she had a son. She has a nightmare where Rogelio blames her for running Erika out of town knowing she was pregnant. He rejects her and returns his father's ring. The next day she steals Lucas' thermos. She brings it with Rogelio's hair to the doctor to get a paternity test done. It takes longer than she would like so in the meantime, she pays Erika a visit to tell her to stay away from her family. Erika tells her to stay away from her son. Finally the DNA results come back. Lucas is her grandson. She suddenly has an attack of guilt not knowing about the conditions in which her grandson lived without his father. She decides there will be no more nonsense in the household because Paula's baby could be in danger.

Fernando inadvertently tells IMELDA that Erika is Rogelio's ex. She asks Felipa to bring her all of the family photo albums. She asks Paula to help her pick the photos that they should digitalize. Supposedly, she is making a surprise for Fernando. There happens to be a loose photo of Rodrigo and Erika in the album. Rogelio appears and says he wants to talk to Paula about something. That never happens because she suddenly becomes dizzy, weak and starts to bleed. Everyone who knew/finds out that Imelda planted a photo of Rogelio and Erika in the album presumes it was what made Paula ill. Truth be told, it didn't seem like she ever saw the photo. Rogelio takes Paula to the hospital where the only OB on call is Erika. She makes sure that Paula is stabilized and decides they need to run some tests on her before she is released. The baby seems to be just fine. Paula is released. Later Erika talks to Pati who is not pleased that she is back at work and was Paula's doctor. Erika says she had no choice. She also adds that there might be something wrong with Paula's baby.

ROGELIO takes Lucas to school and finds out that his full name is Lucas Brown Maldonado. Rogelio eventually catches up with Erika at the hospital. Erika admits that Lucas is his son. She left town because Martina told her she would never work again if she married him and Erika was afraid Martina would find some way to take her child. She married a man names Brown who took her to live in the USA. They divorced after a number of years. When she found out she had cancer, she decided the time had come for Rogelio to meet his son. Rogelio is furious and surmises that he never would have known about his son if Erika had not gotten cancer. Martina tells Rogelio about the DNA test and her nightmare comes true. Rogelio is furious and tells his mother that she can live with the consequences of her actions. She had no right to send Erika away. He lost ten years with his son. Martina has a few weak excuses but really cannot defend herself. Rogelio is sick of her turning his life into a living hell. As soon as Paula is feeling better, they are moving out. Martina slips into her martyr role. When Paula comes back from the hospital, Rogelio suggests they move out and she readily agrees.


 

ETERNAMENTE Page 2

An upset CECILIA tells Paula that she had sex with Ignacio and he ghosted her. Eventually, he does come by to see her. He apologizes admitting he is really mixed up. She accepts his apology and they agree to give their relationship another try.

FELIPA feels guilty about the crib burning and photo that Paula supposedly saw. She confesses it all to Melitón who says none of it is her fault because she had to do what Imelda told her to do.

FERNANDO has time to be present at an illegal gasoline transfer in the middle of the night but does not have time to negotiate a business deal with some Colombian businessmen at the Iturbide company. Fidel is apoplectic with the crummy deal he made and wants to quit. Rogelio lets him know everything that has been on his plate lately and Fidel agrees to stay.

As IMELDA is being blamed by Fernando and Martina for showing Paula a photo of Rogelio and Erika and making her ill, Imelda has her own dizzy spell herself. Is she pregnant???

That is it for me. If you have anything else to add, feel free.
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #77 Part 1

Casualties of War; Vengeance and Retribution; Second Chances; Love Lost

How do you pick up the threads of an old life? How do you go on, when in your heart you begin to understand... there is no going back? There are some things that time cannot mend. Some hurts that go too deep, that have taken hold - Tolkien

Jeremias and Lola discuss their dire predicament.

Camila informs Leona that Calixto has sent her his location. Leona nods and asks her to look after Gael and distract them while she is gone. At that moment Ramses calls, Leona doesn’t know what to tell him. Camila knows that Ramses is evil incarnate but he has much more power than they do; he is the only option they have to find their daughter. Leona answers, stone-faced as Camila looks on. Ramses tersely orders Leona to tell him where Calixto is. Leona doesn’t want him giving her orders and asks that he promise not to hurt AnaJu - or her. Ramses swears and adds that the agreement should be mutual, she shouldn’t try anything against him. Leona tells him that they will unite just this once; she makes it clear she is doing this solely to save the daughter he took from her. Ramses tells her to stop the drama and send him the location; Calixto is probably monitoring the satellite and he needs to find an alternative route. Leona agrees.

At the meeting place (which seems to be some sort of amphitheater), Leona walks toward Calixto, head held high, outwardly, seemingly unafraid. Leona shouts she came alone; she will stay and her daughter will leave. Calixto smarmily tells her they will have much fun together; there is unfinished business between them. Leona juts her chin out asking if he is finally going to admit that he was the one who tried to rape her…maldito asqueroso! (damned disgusting [person] (thank you Rgv Chick). Calixto admits it! Leona shakes her head, demanding to see her daughter and put an end to this once and for all. Calixto smirks that AnaJu is no longer there; he sold her to an important client. Calixto hisses that he sold AnaJu to hurt Ramses and they will use AnaJu as what she is…a vile piece of meat! (as disgusting as this is, it is even more so as Calixto was AnaJu’s “father”. He raised her!) He grabs her and points his gun at her temple. Fueled by pure adrenaline and anger, Leona head buts him and grabs the gun! “Tell me where my daughter is or I’ll kill you!” His guards are ready to spring into action but Calixto keeps them at bay proclaiming Leona doesn’t have what it takes to kill him. Leona shoots at the ground and promises not to miss next time. She yells again, where is she? Calixto tells her that if she kills him, his men will deal with her and threatens that so many men will touch her daughter that she will forget her name. He gets closer, putting his bloody forehead close to the gun, challenging her to kill him (utilizing one of Ramses’ old ploys). He adds she won’t kill him because her pathetic heart is just as ridiculous as Ramses’. Right on cue, Ramses and his men arrive. Screaming at the top of her lungs, Leona shoots Calixto in his not so precious jewels, shouting that this is for being a rapist. She repeats her cry of asking where her daughter is as Ramses smiles approvingly from high on his perch.

AnaJu is leaning against the door frantically begging to be let out. A somber Daphne tells her not to bother; no one can escape. Some girls have been taken to other countries, other states; none returned. AnaJu slumps to the floor in tears. The nightmare worsens as Romeo appears a glass of wine in his hand which he tries to force AnaJu to drink. Her face contorted in agony, AnaJu spews that he makes her sick. Romeo threatens if she doesn’t cooperate, he will force her.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #77 Part 2

Calixto is tied to a pillar when Ramses tells him all his men have been neutralized; Calixto should think hard about what he is going to say or he will die from loss of blood; Leona has already castrated him. Ramses then reminds Leona that they have an agreement. Leona assures that she only cares about her daughter. After Ramses comments that their love for AnaJu unites them, he tells Leona to leave because what he is about to do will be hard to forget. Ramses asks Calixto where his granddaughter is and Calixto replies she is far away with her new owner. Ramses warns that every time he lies, he will hammer a (three-inch) nail into him. Calixto tells him he really doesn’t know so Ramses drives in a nail as Leona grimaces, turning her head. Ramses tells Calixto he will decide when his pain will stop. Ramses again asks who the client is and when Calixto shakes his head, Ramses starts to drive in the second nail which brings Calixto to his limit, admitting that Orlando is the client.

David leads the charge as the police raid Calixto’s apartment, arresting Jeremias as he yells to Lola to escape. But she too is captured. Flor (who is the one truly in charge) demands Jeremias tell them where AnaJu is. Jeremias has the temerity to insist a lawyer be present. David grabs Lola, telling her that the more she cooperates, the better it will be for her. Lola tells him Calixto sold AnaJu and took her. Flor laments this is her most difficult arrest but her father and sister committed a crime. Flor suggests that Jeremias cooperate so he can minimize his sentence so he agrees but lists his conditions. Flor agrees to take care of it and David asks him where AnaJu is.

Leona tells Ramses that she won’t let him find her daughter on his own; he’ll probably take her from her again. She demands that he get the address from Calixto. Ramses scowls that this is the Leona he wanted to see…full of hate and merciless, they aren’t that different. Leona retorts that they are very different; she doesn’t hurt people or traffick women. Ramses points out that both of them will do anything for their families; he knows what happened with Benja and vows Columba will pay! Leona wonders if he is going to continue talking or find her daughter! When Ramses tells her that his contacts are searching all the properties, Leona tells him they don’t have time, he needs to do something!! Ramses growls that she should go get help from the police; she should tell them that Commander Reynoso is corrupt, he will send her the evidence. Leona won’t fall into his trap; she starts to threaten that if he betrays her, she will look for him, but Ramses points the gun at her. He is tired of empty threats. He is not like Calixto, he respects his agreements! As she leaves, Leona counters that her vengeance has not ended, they will meet again! David calls and tells her he has the address.

Kika, Teo and Oliver are holding a rally, brandishing signs with AnaJu’s picture, asking if anyone has seen Ana Julia Torrenegro.

Itzel and Consuelo share a tender moment, Itzel distraught, afraid Benja will (understandably) get depressed at the loss of the vision in his eye. Consuelo assures her beloved daughter that Benja survived and that miracle will help him see with his heart (which was lovely).

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #77 Part 3

Gael, Matias, Jacinta and Josefa are at Benja’s bedside. When Gael asks about Leona and Camila, Matias tells him he talked to Camila who told him they are looking for leads to AnaJu’s whereabouts. Jacinta and Gael are thankful that Benja is alive. Jacinta tells Benja that he will be alright and he needs to think of the good things that will come. When Gael asks if he remembers what happened, Benja recalls hoisting the football to his face and the force of the explosion, shattering the light and the mirror, then the aftermath of smoke as he collapsed on the floor. He nods so Jacinta tells him that because of the explosion, he lost his right eye. Benja cries out in anguish and starts flailing about necessitating the hospital staff administering a sedative. No, no, he quietly murmurs as the drug takes effect.

Romeo returns with a taser, freeing AnaJu’s arm, asking if she is ready. Romeo threatens that she either cooperates or he will use it. As he climbs on top of her, trying to take her by force, Daphne hits him over the head and AnaJu grabs the taser and uses it on him. As the girls make a run for it, Orlando appears, calling for Romeo. He ascends the stairs, gun drawn, pushing them back into the room, asking what they did to Romeo. Hearing the wail of sirens approaching, Orlando grabs Romeo telling him they need to leave. To no one’s astonishment, it is David the savior, leading the charge, the first to burst through the door, the police in hot pursuit. AnaJu tells Flor that Daphne has been there a long time so Flor calls for an ambulance. Leona runs in and hugs her, comforting and calming AnaJu. Camila enters next and hugs AnaJu telling her that she is her reason for moving ahead. AnaJu cries that she thought she would never see them or anyone she loved again. David is giving his worst oh shucks it was nothing fake modest smile.

Jacinta tells Benja that she knows what he is going through is difficult; if he needs to cry or yell, they won’t judge him. Benja cries that he is broken but he is alive. Gael tells him that he feels guilty about what happened; Columba did this to seek vengeance. When he adds that Benja should probably hate him, Benja tells him it’s not he whom he hates, his anger is toward Ramses, Columba and Calixto. Benja wants AnaJu to return (as be as well as she can be) and for Lola to return to her life. He offers his eye so that they (AnaJu and Lola) can see them again. Jacinta assures him he is not alone.

Flor tells Leona that because of the information she gave them, they have arrested Commander Reynoso. Leona asks about Orlando and Romeo…they need to pay for all they are doing! Flor tells her they are still gathering evidence and adds that they have information about a ship that is scheduled to depart where irregularities have been found. David Poirot suggests that the ship might be used for trafficking. AnaJu agrees since Romeo mentioned that they were going to take them out of the country. When Calixto abducted her, she was put in a truck with many other girls. Leona tells Flor that they have to save them! When Daphne shares that AnaJu told her that they would be freed, Leona has a flashback of seeing the girls in the shipyard…and tells Daphne that no woman should ever have to endure this.

Ramses talks to a man on the phone telling him that AnaJu is safe and asks if they let Orlando and Romeo go as he requested. The man replies that it was difficult since Commander Reynoso has been arrested but he called in a couple of favors. The man adds that Ramses has caused them a lot of problems and is unpredictable. Ramses assures him he will finish tying up all the loose ends. Ramses left hand hand is palpably painful and he pops another pill.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #77 Part 4

Orlando, with Romeo right behind, bursts in ordering that the documents be taken out. He is surprised to see Ramses there and quickly tells Ramses that he was about to go look for him. As Orlando lies through his rotten teeth that they couldn’t find AnaJu, Ramses scowls that he is a filthy traitor, he knows what they wanted to do to AnaJu! Orlando attempts to play the “friendship “card but Ramses, without flinching, quickly aims and shoots Orlando! He then approaches Romeo and hisses, “I will do to you what you tried to do to AnaJulia. You will suffer the abuse that you so enjoyed giving!” Romeo finally looks afraid, and with good cause.

The solicitous gathering continues to provide love and comfort to Benja. Josefa assures him he will have their many arms to support him. Matias remarks that he has no doubt that his mother and his family made him strong. Gael (looking pitiful) asks, “Hijo, now that life has given us a second chance, let me be your father, a true father, por favor!” Benja flashes back to Gael telling him how he saw him be born but he wasn’t breathing…and how he pleaded for forgiveness. Gael then gets a call from Leona who assures him they are safe and are with AnaJu. His face radiating joy, Gael tells the others as we see Leona, her face reflecting er massive relief. After Gael shares the news with the others, he tells Leona his good news, Benja has woken up! Leona is glad her “sun” is getting better, they will get there as soon as they can. Gael tells Benja that his mother said she loves him. Benja struggles to say that God heard him and saved AnaJu; they are fine now.

Leona is crouched down, head in her hands crying brokenheartedly as David comes up behind her, comforting her. Leona apologizes, she didn’t want AnaJu to see her like this, with so many contrasting emotions swirling through her head. David assures her she need not justify herself. After Leona lists all the people who have been hurt, she laments that she had to unite with Ramses to find her daughter, and she almost killed Calixto! David knows that forgetting all of this will be difficult and advises she concentrate on the positives…both she and AnaJu are fine. Leona adds that Benja woke up and it broke her heart not to be there. David reminds her she will be there to fill him with all her love…Benja needs that strong mother who brought him into the world. After Leona agrees, she shakes her head not knowing how she will repay David for finding AnaJu. When she asks how he did it, David explains what transpired with Jeremias and Lola who are now in jail. What hurts him most is that Lola will have to learn her lesson in such a drastic way. He doesn’t know how he will tell his sister and family; their hearts will be broken. Leona expresses her sorrow and sympathy as he cradles her head against his chest as they hold each other tightly.

Lola and Jeremias are side by side cell mates. Lola tells her father she feels so stupid (rightfully so I sneer); she feels like the worst person in the world. That doesn’t stop her though from blaming Jeremias for everything. He reminds her HE didn’t put a gun to her head; they both messed up and will now have to suffer the consequences. Lola cries that she doesn’t want to go to prison, but Jeremias tells her that crying won’t help; if she takes his advice, everything will turn out well. Lola tells him that his advice is worthless, she doesn’t need it! Lola wants to turn back time; her efforts to be pretty are futile if she is going to end up in prison! She whines again (like the rotten child she is) that it is all his fault! Lola recalls how her mother pleaded and warned that Jeremias wouldn’t take care of her and would end up leaving her all alone. See if she looks regretful…

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #77 Part 5

In the next scene, the camera pans a huge room where every surface including tables are covered in plastic. Ramses and others are similarly clad in plastic along with the omnipresent bodyguards. Ramses “welcomes” a barely conscious Calixto, laying on a table, his hands and feet strapped down. Ramses tells him that they gave him several anesthetics and tended to his wounds. Ramses wants Calixto to live as long as possible so that he can see everything he will do to him. As Ramses is given a black “magic” marker, Calixto pleads that he not do it. Ramses mocks him asking if Calixto truly thought he was smarter than him. After he adds that it’s now time to prove it, Ramses starts to make markings below Calixto’s knee.

AnaJu strokes AnaJu’s hair as they stand by Benja’s bedside. Leona can’t ask anything more of God; she is finally with her sun and her moon and they are both alive. Benja comments that she was very brave to survive everything she has lived through. AnaJu thinks Benja is brave also and expresses her sympathy for Benja’s arm and eye. After Benja comments that there are those who have learned to live without seeing or being able to walk, Leona assures him that (Saint) David will help him regain his mobility and they will look for options so that he can see. Benja feels bad; he tried to stay positive but it’s difficult. He doesn’t know if he will be able to work and his life won’t be the same. Leona tells him that she and AnaJu will always be there and they will be his compass; he shouldn’t lose hope. Ben shares that feels so much hate—for what Columba did to him, for Calixto…and for Ramses who started everything. Leona feels the same way but if they pursue those feelings, they will only turn into one of them. AnaJu then tells Benja that Itzel is waiting to come in; and Leona tells him that Gael wants to see him too.

Benja thanks them for being there and for being his family. Leona tells them she loves them; she has loved them since they were in her womb and they need to take advantage of the time they have together. Infinite love.

Still strapped down, Calixto has bandages tied to his arm and leg joints with markings above and below the shoulders and knees. Calixto asks for mercy but a masked Ramses reminds him that he would make fun of and taunt Camila when she was an invalid and he had no mercy on AnaJu. Calixto profusely declares how sorry he is. When he adds that God knows he regrets it, Ramses spews that he is the devil and he doesn’t forget. Holding a scalpel and a small saw, he tells Calixto that he will start with the skin then go on to the bone.

Columba looks in the mirror and hisses, “If I can’t have peace, then you won’t either, Leona!” Although she doesn’t ask who the fairest in the land is, Leona’s image appears and completely hysterical, Columba throws and shatters a glass in sheer frustration.

Lola crumbles in despair, huddled on the floor of her cell.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #77 Part 6

Jacinta pleads that David tell her it’s not true that her daughter is in jail. David is gentle but firm in his explanation that Lola was an accomplice to Calixto and she is going to prison. Jacinta melts into his chest, inconsolable.

Hugging her tightly, Teo tells AnaJu that le missed her. Itzel strokes Benja’s cheek telling him she hasn’t stopped thinking about him. Benja haltingly explains he won’t be able to see out of one eye and might not to be able to move his right hand. When he tells her that he isn’t sure she will love him like that, Itzel assures him she will! She will always be there for him, support him and guide him. Watching these sweet interactions, Leona asks Consuelo who would have thought that our children would end up loving each other. Consuelo replies that is destiny. Gael and a smiling Camila join the group.

The family in the glass house listen to a report where pictures of Orlando and Romeo flash on the screen with news they were found dead in their apartment, “victims” of a double suicide. Josefa quickly turns the television off and suggests that they cook a delicious meal to celebrate their family being together. Kika comments that she didn’t want Romeo to have an easy out; she wanted him to be punished for what he did. Camila agrees and adds that at least the girls will return to their families. AnaJu comments that there is much that can be done for the trafficking victims; she wants to dedicate her life to help them. Josefa suggests they start a foundation; not all traffick victims recover their hope as she did. Kika offers to help as well and AnaJu thinks that Leona will also want to help. “Hermanita” Oliver cries with joy, insisting that he and Danilo get a huge hug before she kisses her boyfriend who has just arrived carrying a huge bouquet of red roses. Teo and AnaJu kiss as the boys enthusiastically cheer. In the sweetest scene of the evening, Josefa hustles the boys out of the room but then turns and gives AnaJu the pointing at her eyes and then at AnaJu gesture, clearly telling her (without words) I’m watching you!

News of Romeo’s death was premature although it seems likely he will wish he were. We see a bloody Romeo in chains surrounded by several leering men, mocking him because he is crying. They comment that they will have lots of fun with him.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE #77 Part 7 (Last)

David spoon feeds Benja what looks like green hospital jello (at least some of this is realistic). David comments he is feeding him just as he used to when Benja was little. Benja thanks David for always being there for him and being the father he so desperately needed. David tells him it was done with great love; with Benja, David learned to be a father. David promises they will work on Benja’s rehab together. Benja thoughtfully shares that life can slip out of one’s hands in a moment; he thinks he is ready to forgive Gael. David approves responding that forgiving Gael will liberate Benja completely. Benja has a noble heart that makes him the most marvelous man. Benja then asks him a favor; can he also forgive Gael?

Gael and Leona are both clad in head to toe black, seemingly prophetic. Gael tells Leona he has spoken to the best ophthalmologists who will see Benja as soon as possible. Leona thanks him, adding they can tell Benja the next time they go to the hospital. Gael swears the only thing he wants to do is spend the rest of his life with Benja and AnaJu. Leona is sobbing and he asks what is wrong. Confide in me he urges, come and sit down. She can tell him anything he says earnestly, he loves her with all his heart. He kisses her and she puts her hands on his face and strokes the side of his head. Gael surmises the kiss was one of goodbye. Dissolving in tears, Leona nods saying that saving their daughter brought back many feelings. She cannot stop thinking about the abducted women who they saw locked up all those years ago. Gael admits he can’t banish that vision from his mind either. Leona assures him she has already forgiven him for keeping silent about his father’s crimes for so many years. But she can’t forget that so many women, so many lives including her family were lost because he kept quiet. Gael admits (for the hundredth time) that he should have confronted his father. Leona remarks that if he had been brave, confronted life and the problems they had, they would have been able to form a family with their children and avoided so much suffering. They could have grown together in love watching their children grow up. Gael adds that her family would be alive; and Leona continues that AnaJu wouldn’t have been kidnapped and sold…Benja would not have had to suffer Columba’s attack. When she hugged her daughter today, she feared losing her again as she does with Benja. Gael knows that all the harm Ramses has done will follow them all their lives. Leona adds that all their misfortunes have the same name—Ramses. Leona wishes that Gael could have shown that love was stronger than evil, but he couldn’t do it; and that won’t let them be happy. She has come to a decision—they cannot continue together. As he looks stricken and stares, we end…

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

This was my last recap for Amor Invincible. A few words now, more as we move toward “FIN”.

My heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to my partner Rgv Chick, who generously and selflessly provided the picture-perfect dialogue that intrigued, astonished, and always enlightened. I am continually awed by your inspirational writing; your level of detail is unparalleled. I was only able to recap this due to your time, care and attention in crafting the always encompassing foundation of each episode. It has been a privilege and a joy.

Adriana and Weirdo, your recaps were marvelous, unfailingly informative, and very witty. You always made me smile and had me nodding in vigorous agreement reading your astute observations. It was wonderful working with you both and am so grateful for your support!

To our dear, wise and kind commenters, thank you! You added so much to the conversations and I am honored to be part of the remarkable camaraderie we all share. You buoyed our spirits and kept us going during the seemingly unending darkness. Susan, Jarifa, Liz, Niecie, waterlily and Anon, thank you! If I have forgotten anyone, please forgive me, the hour is late.

Thank you for suffering through all of the abusive scenes, shown and imagined. I tried to relate what transpired providing the facts but trying to avoid being graphic. Grim and depressing.

Barring a miracle, it seems Gael and Leona are not to be. Not that we haven’t been forewarned, but disappointing, nevertheless.

More tomorrow.

Diana
 

Invencible

Diana and RGVChick, thanks so much for being able to recap this episode. I am just happy I didn't watch it.

Where to start, where to start... More irritating scenes with Superhero David doing everything and Gael just standing there saying he should have confronted his father. Honestly, they made David too OP. So he gets EVERYWHERE on time and saves EVERYONE? That's unrealistic.

I got so enraged reading the last scene with Leona and Gael I almost smacked my phone in the wall in front of me. QTH? Yes, Gael just waiting 16 years until he starts confronting his father may have been a bit much and yes he should have supported Marena more with the kids, but shifting the blame of all the murders, almost trafficking of AnaJu and Benja's accident was too much. So if Gael stayed with Mar Ramsés would have been like "okay, cool, no problem"? Ha! These people are delusional. He would have probably done worse than he already did.

Lola is still unwatchable. So everything is Jeremías's fault? Sure, a big portion of their problem IS his fault, but she literally AGREED to help Calixto. I feel so sorry for Jacinta, imagine having to have her as your daughter!

These scenes must have been though to film. "Sick symbolism" indeed Jarifa.

Best scene: the last one with Romeo. Sorry not sorry.

Thanks again!
 

"but shifting the blame of all the murders, almost trafficking of AnaJu and Benja's accident TO GAEL was too much". The only time I didn't proofread! Lol
 

invencible
Well, at least that scene with Leona and Gael was the last one.I've said it already: why does no one tell Leona she is no prophet and can't be certain everything would have been as she says if Gael had confronted his father.Why the helleveryone just agrees with her?I don't get why Leona keeps repeating the same thing over and over. Is she enjoying a chance to blame Gael for everything. But when she says many people had been hurt, it's 'focus on the positives' and not 'your revenge plan was stupid.' The dialogue in this story is...And I'm still not sure what the point of all these lines is. Leona is a victim. Fine. But there's no mention of her perspective being shaped by her trauma. No one ever challenges her. And David...He was a teenager who fancied Leona. Now he is a man jealous of a man whom Leona doesn't love.The writers seem to be forcing the viewers to like David. It's like they are pointing their fingers at the scenes with him and saying,'see how great he is? He saved her daughter again! Like him already? not yet? Here's David comforting Leona...' Just stop!
It's still funny to me that Leona thinks Gael confronting his father would have saved everyone when it's her contacting the police about the kidnapped women that brought about the biggest tragedy. Why can't she see how this would have ended when she has lived with the result of exactly the same actions that she insists Gael should have taken? I don't understand how an adult can be so narrow-minded about something as complicated as this.
The scenes with Calixto were horrific. But the man was stupid. I can't believe both him and Columba are so delusional when they've workd with Ramses for so long.
Didn't Romeo end up with some Russians? I believe it was Russian I heard because I could understand what they were saying.
So is Ramses going to cut Calixto like a piece of meat till he dies?
 

Eternamente 20/21

Gracias, Jarifa.

Martina's excuses were all insulting comments about both Erica and Paula, neither of whom deserve this. She has no valid excuse for objecting to either of them. Erica would have been a good wife to Rogelio and Lucas would have had a good father who is justifiably angry at having missed out on the boy's childhood.

Like any typical narcissist Martina lacks serious self-awareness. She wants to keep her sons all to herself. She sees them get interested in women their own age and looks for any reason to object to them. Even Imelda sees through her to some extent and is showing evidence of rebellion against her ridiculous demands. She and Fernando will be the first to leave the mansion.

One has to wonder why Martina didn't start looking for a new husband a few respectable years after Hypolito's death.
 

INVENCIBLE

Diana, I didn’t watch this but did read your beautifully crafted recap. What a wonderfully appropriate Tolkien quote yet again. A big thank you, Diana and RgvChick, for covering this very novel novela as you did, in great style!
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

"So if Gael stayed with Mar Ramsés would have been like "okay, cool, no problem"? Ha! These people are delusional. He would have probably done worse than he already did".

Weirdo, thank you for cutting right to the chase. You nailed it.

Gael should definitely challenged Ramses as an adult but he was, he is, so psychologically damaged, I do not think it would have been possible. It took tragedy to give him the shot of courage he so desperately needed. Gael has been damned from the start.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

"Leona is a victim. Fine. But there's no mention of her perspective being shaped by her trauma. No one ever challenges her" is very true waterlily.

In truth, Leona certainly bears scars from all the trauma she endured. While Gael took comfort in Leona, Leona took comfort in David. She chose to abandon her great love for the one who had great love (obsession) for her.

David? I. Just. Can't.

Thank you for adding the men who had Romeo in captivity were likely Russian. I had no idea!

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Jarifa, thank you for your kind words.

As I never knew what would happen with this from night to night, I had to have several quotes ready with whatever occurred. After Leona and Gael's crushing "parting", I knew that was the one! Crushing but oh so fitting.

Diana
 

OT/Univisión Scheduling

Both "mi tv" and "tv passport" claim that:

Eternamente Amándonos will continue with double episodes for the next week.

The next Tuesday (August 1), Tierra de Esperanza will run for 2 hours, from 9-11. No Mujer nor Vencer la Culpa episodes. Huh?

Even weirder, for the rest of the week (August 2-4), they claim that Tierra de Esperanza will go to one hour episodes at 9 and Mujer will continue at 10. ¿Qué?

Does anyone know anything about this? And if it's true, when will Vencer la Culpa air?
 

Invencible

Dear traumatized Diana and Chickie, thank you so much for going above and beyond to recap this horror fest. Yikes yuck ugh meh. I can't find the words right now . Maybe after another cup of strong coffee I will be able to comment. I will tell you that when the horror scenes came on , I turned on my tablet and watched Daniel merengue . QTH were the writers thinking ? Smoking ? I am so disappointed in where the writers have taken this once promising show . They have been very deceptive and manipulating . i think they wanted to shock us. I started watching telenovelas as an escape from reality. I like happy endings . I don't see now how this show can possibly have one.
 

Invencible

Diana, that Tolkien quote gave me chills.
 

OT

Weirdo, I assure you Uni will keep us waiting until the last minute. That is just the way they are. Annoying. One would think they would want viewers to actually know what is showing when. Not the case. They gave us the impression Culpa was just around the corner, so who knows ?
 

Invencible

Diana, recapping this story with you has been a delight, thank you for making it so special. I've already told you this, but it bears repeating: you are one in a million, one of the kindest persons I've ever "met".

Waterlily, ditto to everything you said, especially about David. Gael was winning so many brownie points with the fans, they had to drive the point home that David is the hero. I don't think they realized how unlikable this will make him.
And speaking of, he's only second to Leona, who keeps blaming Gael for not being a brave 18 year old, while her current actions have caused so much pain already and we haven't finished the body count yet. And yes, the worst part is that nobody ever questions her, she is always right about everything, just like David is always saving everyone from everything all at once.
Just.put.them.together. already!
FREE GAEL! I'm so sick of this, thank God we only have a few shows left.

If this is the revenge Ramses prepared for Calixto, what on Earth will he do to Columba? I actually think it will be even harder to watch.
 

ETERNAMENTE

Jarifa, thank you for your superb summation of what appeared to be a very pivotal episode in which many secrets were spilled.

"Rogelio is sick of her turning his life into a living hell. As soon as Paula is feeling better, they are moving out". A shame that heaven and earth seemed to be turned upside down for that threat to be uttered.

Did Rogelio show any compassion at all for Erica learning she has cancer? I understand his outrage at not knowing his son existed but there is just something about him that rubs me the wrong way.

I saw very little of this but did see Imelda "fainting" at the end. I thought she was faking it (?)

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Adriana, I am grateful for and touched by your lovely words. Thank you.

Loved your comment on Leona who "...just like David is always saving everyone from everything all at once".

I am so foolish. When I heard Osorio was going to give the fans what they wanted, I hardly envisioned this. So was Osorio so damned and determined David was going to be the galan that the added episodes were crafted solely to showcase more heroic feats for David while reducing Gael to a crying, despondent bystander??

Just no...

Diana
 

Eternamente

Thank you Jarifa for your fabulous notes! I had a friend come over towards the end of the 2nd episode and missed the last 15 minutes or so. I appreciate knowing what I missed!!!

Diana, ‘ Did Rogelio show any compassion at all for Erica learning she has cancer? I understand his outrage at not knowing his son existed but there is just something about him that rubs me the wrong way.’ THIS!!! The no compassion and also the no accountability! Yes, it was wrong that Martina scared Erika off and that Erika didn’t tell him that he had a child, but what did he do? Or more to the point, what didn’t he do? His mother ran off the love of his life whom he was going to marry and he is just finding out about it all these years later???? That means he didn’t go after her! Didn’t look for her! Didn’t look for an explanation of why she left back then, didn’t do anything it would seem!!! He buried his head in the sand and now it’s everyone else’s fault. Again, what Martina and Erika did was wrong, but a man in love who refused to let his partner walk out of his life without an explanation would have known he was a father years ago - Erika loved him, she would have told him if he insisted. I just can’t feel sorry for him….

I like Blanca’s new hair and I sighed at how fast Cecilia caved to Ignacio. Forget just forgiving him, she is the one who convinced him to give it another chance…..smh
 

Invencible
Thanks for recap

Very good action episode.
Leona acted like Jack Bauer in 24. She finally got her revenge on Calixto.

Romeo, Orlando and Calixto faced the wrath of Ramsey.
Mis Columbia is next.

 

ETERNAMENTE

Thanks, Diana. Rogelio has shown himself to have a very bad temper. He was like a Martina mini-me yelling at Erika. All he needed was a wig. He didn’t care about his mother’s threats and less about her cancer. It was all about him. Looks like he is a galán in training with a lot of lessons to learn. With Imelda, who knows. ITA, that a “fainting” spell sure would stop Fernando and Martina from yelling at her.
 

ETERNAMENTE

Darcy, so glad the notes proved useful. It will probably take most of the novela until Rogelio can show that he deserves the love of the good woman Paula. Oh, the suffering! Oh, the humanity! ; ) Yes, Blanca is looking good and ready for some positive adventures.
 

Invencible

Well , I posted a short comment that seems to have disappeared. I agree with all the comments.

Dear traumatized Diana and Chickie, thank you having the fortitude to watch and recap And rewind this horror fest . yikes yuck ugh meh When the horror scenes started showing up , I turned on my tablet and watched Daniel dancing the merengue. ...worked like magic.

I have been watching telenovelas for years, and this is the very first one that kept me awake at night. I couldn't sleep after that sea of pain, both physical and emotional.

The writers got the memo that Gael was getting too beloved by the fans, if not by Leona , so they appear to have started taking him apart bit by bit just like devil incarnate Ram is dealing with his minion. Gael gets shot in the leg and goes directly to the hospital leaving Super Dave to comfort Leona and dash around trying to save Anaju. Each part of the dynamic duo of Leona and Dave has a job. Super Leona confronts smarmy Cal alone and unafraid and shoots the jewels before watching Ram torture him and finding out where Ana is. Super Dave's job is to do the actually rescuing of Ana. I especially loved the scene of David IN FRONT OF the police bursting through the door and jogging up the steps to embrace GAEL' s daughter. Meanwhile, Gael sits In his hospital gown in a wheelchair by Ben's bedside....(and still looking good!!! I must add .) Let's not even have him in pants say the writers because Dave is always smirking as he talks at Gael about not having pantaloons...so ...you know ...lets make it literal...no pants .) Gael can't even stand beside the bed and hug his injured son . I noticed that Daniel did his best in that scene by putting his hand protectively on Ben's stomach and encouraging him as best he could . Matias had to act as Gael's proxy to embrace Ben .

Leona and David are just so unbelievably super and brave , They need to be together . The perfect dynamic duo. Adios.

The final scene of The bedroom ( where nothing but sleep and chatting And Gaels fantasies of making love to mar\leona ever happened) with Gael in his boot and his crutches handy and Leona bestowing the kiss of death on him .....wow.....talk about a cold, cold heart. Girl, remember that you seduced him into falling in love with you and marrying you. Best that you finally stop leading him on that he might make those fantasies he keeps having fulfilled and let him find someone who can love him , and eggos, and water globes, and massive bouquets of flowers, and heartfelt notes , and kissing skills. I bet Leona will be muy jealous if Gael ever does go on to find someone to love him the way he loves her. David is probably right outside that door.

I just want this messy mess of trauma and broken dreams to end already . We have All suffered enough. Make it stop. I have A good imagination and have created my own ending in mind....it might be Gael's seaside bed fantasy .Leona has snapped out of it. Then, A year later ,..... Anaju and Benjamin are holding their new siblings Maryju and Juanja . Gael and Leona are running a B&B where Gael is the chef serving his trademark Eggos and doing seminars on romance and Leona is trying to be a life coach to people who just want to drink in Gael's advice and enjoy his Eggos. The End.

 

Invencible

Thanks so much, Diana, I so enjoy your detailed recaps. You bring everything that happened back into my mind.

Two people had fitting ends, well I loved Leona shooting Calixto in his privates. Ramses is going into overkill with his torture. He really is a sadist. I would prefer to see Calixto rotting in prison not quite being a man. And I thought Romeo is getting what he deserved. The report of his death confused me. Was there another body that was mistakenly identified as him? Or an editing mistake!

Lola had a decent ending too. Wonder how her big boobs will serve her in prison. She is so different in looks from her sister. AnaJu is a pretty, sweet looking girl. I don’t know if Lola could ever play that type. I need to look them up and see different pictures.

David the hero as Gael is in the hospital. Maddening! And everyone still blaming Gael. Why does Leona think Ramses would have left them alone to live happily ever after. I don’t think he ever would have allowed it and the killings probably could have happened anyway. But yes, Gael could have gone to the police once he was an adult. Although some police were on Ramses’ payroll.

I will not give up on Gael and Leona until the very end.

Liz
 

OT

I see previews of Tierra de Esperanza on Univision but don’t see any for Vencer. I do fast forward through the commercials but think I would notice it. I am flying out to visit my sister August 1st and will record the series before I leave for the airport at 4:30 am. Vencer needs to start that night or wait a week!

Liz
 

Eternamente 20/21

I agree that Imelda is faking. It must be yet another tactic to avoid sex with Fernando. Remember that Martina once advised him to be "more aggressive" in his pursuit of intimacy with this bitch.

While it bothers me that Rogelio showed little feeling at Erica's condition I can't really fault him for his angry reaction. He should have asked Erica why she didn't tell him about this back in the day rather than ghosting him. I am also guessing she didn't yet know she was pregnant when that happened. Later contact may have disrupted her green-card marriage. Had she not become ill she might have stayed away altogether.

Martina deserved every word of his rage although I think he should have held the line at telling her that he and Paula will move out. That will only give Martina time to come up with another scheme to stop them. However, I think Rogelio needs to watch out for the strong possibility that Martina will try to take his children away from him and Paula.
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Susan, thank you.

Your entire comment is so thoughtful and thought provoking I'm not sure where to begin.

I feel your emotional turmoil in losing sleep over this. I may have gotten two hours last night - at best. Our devoted patio has and is making many sacrifices to slog our way through this detestable mess.

"Let's not even have him in pants say the writers because Dave is always smirking as he talks at Gael about not having pantaloons...so ...you know ...lets make it literal...no pants .)" made me laugh and I so thank you for that!!

I love your fantasy of Gael and Leona finally coming together. "Marju and Juanja" yes!! Gael doing seminars while cooking romantic breakfasts is the best. I would hope Leona periodically takes a break from her life coach duties to cook her famous fried fish. ;)

Anon, glad you enjoyed the episode, and yes, I'm sure Columba's "number" will be up shortly.

Diana
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Liz, thank you so much!

My take is that Ramses planted the news about Orlando and Romeo's "passing" so that no one would search for Romeo. Likely, someone, somewhere would notice his absence. Everyone thinks he is dead and gone but, at least for the moment, he is alive, although in hell.

Your "David the hero as Gael is in the hospital. Maddening! And everyone still blaming Gael" was perfect and very fitting.

"I will not give up on Gael and Leona until the very end". There have been instances where this exact scenario has played out. In Teresa, also played by Angelique, the love of her life returns to her in oh the last five minutes or so. Miracles do happen; I would love it if if happened here.

Diana
 

Invencible

Diana, I want to be hopeful, but at this point, the writers seem to hate Gael and want to use him as a PSA ....about what ?....not sure ....being a brave teen and standing up to your father who is a sadistic criminal who has lots of people in high positions and police corruption on his side ? Leona, if Gael had done what you suggested way back when as a teen, he would be dead . period. How would that have changed anything ?

For those here who have been at caray for a long time , do you remember how we used two plan our theme based snacks and beverages for the finale ? For the example, at the finale of" Destilando Amor" which was full of scenes of agave fields and tequila factories, some patio peeps bought a bottle of tequila. Nobody has made me Eggos al fresco for 5 years, but I just might buy some on my next trip to the local grocery store.


 

Eternamente

Gracias, Jarifa.

Woohoo to Blanca's new attitude and hairdo.

It's a beanie moment for me that an intelligent woman like Erika would've deprived her son of a loving father due to Martina's threats. Seems the man Erika married (and divorced) was no true dad to the boy. Ten years is a long time. A loss for both Rogelio and Lucas. Tragic about Erika's illness, but she bugs me in plotting rather then being open and honest.

When it comes to villains Imelda and Fernando, it's Imelda I can't stand the most. So I enjoyed him getting on her case about that photo. What a witch.

So Honorio wants to be Micaela's boyfriend? Poor thing got ahead of himself trying to get her to eat out of the same bowl, with the same fork, with him.
 

ETERNAMENTE

Niecie,

Honorio has been open about his wishes but Micaela will only go out with him as “just friends”. I sort of felt sorry for him with her reaction, but she has been honest. Anyway, he had more food for himself! Yes, Imelda is something else. Nasty piece of work.
 

Invencible

Diana, you are a master storyteller. Your recap held me spellbound. The quotation from Tolkien for last night's epi is beyond perfect. Sadly, Leona let Gael (and Viewerville) know she can never get back to that idyllic love they once had. On another note, despite all the grim happenings, you brought the humor. I love all your digs at Super David! and this on Columba:

"Columba looks in the mirror and hisses, “If I can’t have peace, then you won’t either, Leona!” Although she doesn’t ask who the fairest in the land is, Leona’s image appears and completely hysterical, Columba throws and shatters a glass in sheer frustration.

I'm so not sorry about Calixto's and Romeo's downfalls, but yikes! this TN has the highest torture quotient of any TN I've seen.

I do feel sorry for silly, stupid Lola because she was egged on by her loving (NOT!) dad. But jail time is exactly what Lola deserves. She's been fortunate to escape being sold into slavery and to recover from risky breast implants. The girl should count her blessings, instead she's whining. Jacinta, I guess this kid is your cross to bear.
 

Invencible/OT

Rgv Chick, gracias for supporting Diana on crucial dialogue. This TN has been thick with twist and turns, and your translations cleared my fogs. I hope your animalitos are okay in all this heat. Thanks for all you do to keep Caray a happy place.
 

AMOR INVENCIBLE

Niecie, thank you for your very kind words.

This was hard to watch last night and I suspect tonight and Friday will likely be as well. I'm sure Osorio can fit in a few more nauseating moments in Monday's finale as he has been toying with us lo these many months.

I felt David was fair game as (barring a miracle and it isn't anywhere near Christmas), he will get the girl and the happy ending. Perhaps if he weren't so darn annoying and cloying I'd be happy. But he is and I'm not :)

Lola has dodged a few bullets, you're exactly right Niecie. I'm hoping a nice long stay in the big house will do Lola good. I do feel for Jacinta though but I suspect a contrite and less nasty Lola will return unscathed after her ordeal.

Diana
 

Invencible

I am trying to have a glass half full attitude toward that scene between Leona and Gael in the Bedroom of Broken Dreams . At least she didn't shoot him in the family jewels like she did in the last showdown she had with a guy.
 

Invencible

I'm at the point where I don't even want Gael with Leona anymore, she doesn't deserve him!
They will always be involved thanks to their kids and that is something David can never change, no matter how many times everyone says that he saved, changed his diapers, bresfed and generally was Benja's everything.
All I want is for Gael to have his kids' forgiveness and start a new life.
The two start crossed idiots can run into the sunset together, riding on their hollier than thou braveness.